Dissection of artery of lower extremity

This code signifies a tear in the inner lining of an artery located in the leg or foot, leading to blood flowing between the layers of the arterial wall. This dissection creates a false lumen, which can compromise blood flow to the distal extremity. It is a serious vascular condition that can result in ischemia and potentially limb loss.

Use this code when documentation explicitly states an arterial dissection affecting a lower extremity artery, such as the femoral, popliteal, or tibial arteries. This diagnosis is typically supported by imaging studies like CT angiography, MRI, or ultrasound demonstrating the intimal flap and false lumen. It applies to both spontaneous and traumatic dissections.

• Differentiate from arterial aneurysm (I72.-) or occlusion (I70.-) which involve different pathologies.
• Specify laterality (left, right, or bilateral) if documented, using the appropriate seventh character.
• Code any associated complications, such as acute limb ischemia (I74.30-I74.39), separately.