I70.744

HCC Category Mapping

What This Code Means

Hardening of arteries in a bypass graft in the left leg with an open sore on the heel or midfoot area.

Coding Tips

• •Differentiate between heel ulceration and midfoot ulceration in documentation, though this code encompasses both.
• •Monitor for infection or tissue necrosis in weight-bearing areas, which may require additional coding.

Clinical Significance

Atherosclerosis of other type bypass graft of the left leg with ulceration of the heel and midfoot represents advanced peripheral arterial disease with active tissue loss (Fontaine Stage IV). Ulceration from arterial insufficiency through a bypass graft indicates graft dysfunction or progression of atherosclerotic disease, carrying substantial risk for limb loss. Accurate coding captures the complexity of managing combined graft disease with wound care needs, ensuring appropriate risk adjustment and care planning.

Documentation Requirements

• ✓Documented atherosclerotic disease specifically of other type bypass graft(s) in the left leg
• ✓Active ulceration at the heel and midfoot clearly described — including size, depth, and wound characteristics
• ✓Laterality confirmed as left leg
• ✓Type of bypass graft specified (synthetic, composite, or other non-vein/non-biological type)
• ✓Severity/classification of ulcer documented (e.g., Wagner grade, wound staging)
• ✓Additional code from L97.- or L98.49- to specify ulcer severity
• ✓Current wound care regimen and vascular management plan documented
• ✓Vascular studies or perfusion assessment results when available

Commonly Confused Codes