Occipital encephalocele

This code signifies a congenital neural tube defect where a portion of the brain, specifically from the occipital lobe, protrudes through an opening in the skull at the back of the head. This protrusion is encased in a sac-like membrane. It represents a specific type of encephalocele based on its anatomical location.

Use this code when documentation clearly identifies an encephalocele located in the occipital region. This typically occurs in newborns or infants and is often diagnosed prenatally via ultrasound or at birth through physical examination. Supporting documentation would include imaging reports (MRI, CT) confirming the occipital location and physician notes detailing the defect.

• Differentiate from other encephalocele types (e.g., frontal, parietal) based on precise anatomical documentation.
• Always look for associated congenital anomalies, as encephaloceles often occur with other birth defects, and code them accordingly.
• Ensure the documentation specifies "occipital" to avoid coding a more general encephalocele.