I70.1

HCC Category Mapping

What This Code Means

Narrowing of the blood vessels that supply the kidneys due to fatty plaque buildup, which can affect kidney function and blood pressure.

Coding Tips

• •Specify laterality (right, left, or bilateral) in documentation to support accurate coding
• •Document any associated hypertension or chronic kidney disease, as these conditions often coexist

Clinical Significance

Atherosclerosis of the renal artery can cause renovascular hypertension and ischemic nephropathy, potentially leading to progressive chronic kidney disease and refractory hypertension. This condition represents a significant intersection of vascular and renal pathology, often requiring specialized diagnostic workup including renal duplex ultrasonography and potentially angioplasty or stenting. Accurate documentation is important because it identifies patients at high risk for both cardiovascular events and progressive renal deterioration.

Documentation Requirements

• ✓Documentation of the specific arterial site affected by atherosclerosis
• ✓Imaging or hemodynamic evidence of renal artery stenosis (duplex ultrasonography, computed tomography angiography, or arteriography)
• ✓Assessment of impact on renal function (serum creatinine, glomerular filtration rate) and blood pressure control
• ✓Documentation of whether renovascular hypertension or ischemic nephropathy is present
• ✓Treatment plan (medical management, angioplasty, or stenting) with ongoing monitoring

Commonly Confused Codes