Acute embolism and thombos of superfic veins of l up extrem

This code signifies the sudden blockage of a superficial vein in the left arm due to an embolus (a traveling clot) or a thrombus (a clot formed in place). This condition typically presents with acute pain, swelling, and redness along the affected vein. It is distinct from deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and chronic venous conditions.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates an acute onset of a blood clot within a superficial vein of the patient's left upper extremity. Supporting documentation should include physician notes detailing the location (left upper extremity, superficial vein), the acute nature of the event, and diagnostic findings confirming an embolism or thrombosis.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "superficial" veins, as deep vein thrombosis of the upper extremity has different codes.
• Verify the laterality is explicitly stated as "left upper extremity" to avoid miscoding.
• Do not use this code for chronic or recurrent superficial thrombophlebitis; specific codes exist for those conditions.