Cardiology Coding Alert

Question: What is the proper ICD-9 code for anatrial mass?

Massachusetts Subscriber

Answer: If "mass" is the only information you have, 429.89 (Other ill-defined heart diseases; other) may be your best option.

Watch out: You should not choose a neoplasm code for a "'mass,' unless otherwise stated," according to an ICD-9 note with 239.x (Neoplasms of unspecified nature).