Torsades de pointes

This code represents a specific type of polymorphic ventricular tachycardia characterized by a twisting of the QRS complexes around the isoelectric line on an electrocardiogram. It is a potentially life-threatening arrhythmia that can degenerate into ventricular fibrillation and sudden cardiac death.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states "Torsades de pointes" or describes the characteristic ECG findings of this arrhythmia. This typically occurs in patients with prolonged QT intervals, often due to electrolyte imbalances (e.g., hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia), certain medications, or congenital long QT syndromes.

• Always ensure the documentation clearly specifies "Torsades de pointes" and differentiates it from other forms of ventricular tachycardia.
• Investigate and code any underlying causes, such as electrolyte disturbances or adverse drug effects, as additional diagnoses.
• Do not confuse with other unspecified ventricular tachycardias (I47.20) or ventricular fibrillation (I47.22) unless specifically documented as such.