Coarctation of aorta

This code represents a congenital narrowing of the aorta, the main artery carrying blood from the heart to the body. This constriction typically occurs in the thoracic aorta, often near the ductus arteriosus, leading to increased blood pressure in the upper body and decreased pressure in the lower body.

Use this code when documentation explicitly states a diagnosis of coarctation of the aorta. This diagnosis is typically confirmed through imaging studies such as echocardiography, MRI, or CT angiography, and may be identified in infancy or later in life.

• Differentiate from other congenital anomalies of the aorta; this code is specific to coarctation.
• Consider sequencing this code as the primary diagnosis if it is the reason for the encounter, especially for surgical repair or diagnostic workup.
• Look for documentation of associated conditions, such as bicuspid aortic valve, which may require additional coding.