I25.2 Old myocardial infarction

ICD10CM code

#### Name of the Condition
- Old Myocardial Infarction
- Also referred to as "Old Heart Attack" or "Healed Myocardial Infarction."

#### Summary
Old Myocardial Infarction describes a previous heart attack where the initial symptoms may no longer be present, but the damage persists. This condition indicates that the infarction occurred in the past, and scar tissue has already formed.

#### Causes
Old Myocardial Infarction occurs following an acute episode of myocardial infarction, typically caused by blockage in the coronary arteries due to:
- Atherosclerosis
- Blood clots

#### Risk Factors
Common factors increasing the risk include:
- Age (higher incidence in older adults)
- Family history of heart disease
- Smoking
- Hypertension
- High cholesterol levels
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Sedentary lifestyle

#### Symptoms
While symptoms of an old myocardial infarction may no longer be active, patients might experience:
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath on exertion
- Occasional chest discomfort

#### Diagnosis
- **Electrocardiogram (ECG):** Can reveal past infarction through specific changes.
- **Echocardiogram:** Visualizes heart function and scar tissue.
- **Cardiac MRI:** Provides detailed images of scar tissue in the heart.
- **Blood tests:** May show markers consistent with prior myocardial injury.

#### Treatment Options
While an old myocardial infarction itself does not require treatment, management focuses on preventing future infarctions:
- **Medications:** Such as anticoagulants, beta-blockers, and statins to manage risk factors.
- **Lifestyle modifications:** As outlined below.

#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- The prognosis depends on the extent of the myocardial damage and adherence to management strategies.
- Regular monitoring through check-ups is crucial to manage cardiovascular health and prevent further complications.

#### Complications
Potential complications include:
- Heart failure
- Arrhythmias
- Recurrent myocardial infarction

#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- **Diet:** Adopt a heart-healthy diet, low in saturated fats and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- **Exercise:** Engage in regular physical activity.
- **Smoking cessation:** Quit smoking to improve heart health.
- **Regular screenings:** Monitor blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose levels.

#### When to Seek Professional Help
Seek immediate medical attention if experiencing:
- New or worsening chest pain
- Severe shortness of breath
- Unexplained fatigue

#### Additional Resources
- [American Heart Association](https://www.heart.org)
- [National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute](https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov)

#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Code I25.2 when documenting a history of myocardial infarction with no active symptoms.
- Avoid coding I25.2 for acute myocardial infarctions; use relevant acute myocardial infarction codes instead.

Medical Policies and Guidelines for Old myocardial infarction

Related policies from health plans

Similar Codes