I71.9
BillableAortic aneurysm of unspecified site, without rupture
HCC Category Mapping
V24HCC 108 — Vascular Disease
0.297ESRDHCC 108 — Vascular Disease
0.000What This Code Means
A bulging or weakening of the aorta at a location that is not specifically identified or classified elsewhere, and it has not ruptured.
Coding Tips
- •This unspecified code should be used only when the exact aortic location cannot be determined from available documentation
- •Attempt to obtain more specific imaging or clinical documentation to assign a more precise code
Clinical Significance
Aortic aneurysm of unspecified site without rupture indicates the presence of aortic aneurysmal disease but lacks anatomic specificity. While this captures the diagnosis for risk adjustment, it represents a missed opportunity for precise coding. The condition requires ongoing surveillance and carries risk of progression to rupture, making it important for resource planning.
Documentation Requirements
- ✓Documentation of aortic aneurysm diagnosis
- ✓Imaging confirmation with measurements when available
- ✓Statement confirming no rupture or leak
- ✓Attempt to determine specific location from imaging reports
- ✓Surveillance plan and follow-up imaging schedule
- ✓Risk factor management (blood pressure control, smoking cessation)
Commonly Confused Codes
I71.2 — Thoracic aortic aneurysm, without rupture: use when thoracic location is specifiedI71.4 — Abdominal aortic aneurysm, without rupture: use when abdominal location is specifiedI71.60 — Thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm, without rupture: use when both segments involvedI71.8 — Aortic aneurysm of unspecified site, ruptured: ruptured version carries higher HCC weight
Code Hierarchy
└I71Aortic aneurysm and dissection└I71.9Aortic aneurysm of unspecified site, without rupture
└I71.9Aortic aneurysm of unspecified site, without rupture