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Wiki Protruding Sternal Wires

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cmblocher

Networker
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Dover , PA
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Patient is having pain from protruding sternal wires. They are sent to the OR to have them removed. I am always confused as to what Dx code to use. I usually use a complication code (996.79) I just don't feel as though this justify's the problem.

Thanks for any input.
 
996.79

cmweyand ... why do you feel "this doesn't justify the problem"?

I don't agree with lavanya ... unless I'm misinterpreting your query ... it's not the cardiac device that is causing the discomfort it's the sternal wires used when closing the chest.

Note, too that ICD9 instructs you to also use the additional code to identify the complication ... e.g. pain due to presence of implant ... 338.18 is my guess based on the minimal information you provided in your original question.

F Tessa Bartels, CPC, CPC-E/M
 
thanks

I needed a second opinion. I do agree with 996.79, I just was unsure what other's were using in this case. Thank you both for your input!
 
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