Leakage of aortic (bifurcation) graft (replacement), sequela

This code signifies a long-term complication where an aortic graft, including those at the bifurcation, has developed a leak. This leakage indicates a failure of the graft to maintain its integrity, potentially leading to blood escaping into surrounding tissues or spaces. It represents a persistent or late-occurring issue related to the original graft placement.

Use this code when documenting a patient presenting with symptoms or findings (e.g., imaging evidence) of a leak in a previously implanted aortic or aortic bifurcation graft, and the condition is a sequela, meaning it's a late effect of the initial graft procedure. This code is appropriate for follow-up encounters addressing the long-term consequences of such a leak.

• Always assign an additional code to specify the exact nature of the leak, if known (e.g., endoleak type).
• Ensure documentation clearly supports the "sequela" nature of the leakage, indicating it's a chronic or late complication.
• Do not use for acute or initial complications of the graft; those would fall under different T82.3 subcategories.