Arteriovenous fistula of pulmonary vessels

This code represents an abnormal, direct connection between an artery and a vein within the pulmonary circulation, bypassing the capillary bed. This acquired vascular anomaly can lead to shunting of deoxygenated blood to the systemic circulation, potentially causing hypoxemia.

Use this code for documented cases of acquired arteriovenous fistulas affecting the pulmonary arteries and veins. This typically applies to adult patients where the condition is not congenital in origin. Documentation should clearly state "pulmonary arteriovenous fistula" and exclude any mention of congenital etiology.

• Differentiate carefully between acquired and congenital forms; congenital pulmonary arteriovenous fistulas are coded elsewhere.
• Ensure the documentation specifies the pulmonary vessels are involved, as arteriovenous fistulas can occur in other anatomical locations.
• Consider any associated symptoms or complications (e.g., hypoxemia, hemoptysis) for additional coding, but this code specifically identifies the fistula itself.