I26.93 Single subsegmental pulmonary embolism without acute cor pulmonale

ICD10CM code

#### Name of the Condition
- Single subsegmental pulmonary embolism without acute cor pulmonale (ICD Code: I26.93)

#### Summary
- A single subsegmental pulmonary embolism (SSPE) is a type of blood clot that occurs in the small branches of the pulmonary arteries in the lungs. Unlike more extensive pulmonary embolisms, an SSPE affects only a small portion of lung tissue and does not lead to acute cor pulmonale, a condition where the right side of the heart fails due to increased pressure in the lungs.

#### Causes
- Pulmonary embolisms can be caused by deep vein thrombosis (DVT), where blood clots form in the legs or other parts of the body and travel to the lungs. Other causes include prolonged immobility, surgery, and certain medical conditions that increase blood clotting.

#### Risk Factors
- Prolonged inactivity or immobility (e.g., long flights or bed rest)
- Recent surgery or trauma
- History of DVT or blood clotting disorders
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Use of birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy
- Advanced age

#### Symptoms
- Sudden shortness of breath
- Chest pain, which may worsen with deep breathing or coughing
- Lightheadedness or dizziness
- Rapid pulse
- Coughing up blood (hemoptysis)

#### Diagnosis
- CT pulmonary angiography is the preferred method for diagnosing pulmonary embolism.
- Other tests include D-dimer blood tests, ultrasound of the legs to detect DVT, and ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) scans.

#### Treatment Options
- Anticoagulant medications (e.g., heparin, warfarin, or direct oral anticoagulants) to prevent further clotting.
- In cases where anticoagulants are not suitable, catheter-directed thrombolysis or surgical removal of the clot may be considered.

#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- With timely treatment, patients can recover fully, although the condition may require ongoing medical management.
- Regular follow-up is critical to monitor the condition and adjust treatment to prevent recurrence.

#### Complications
- If left untreated, SSPE can lead to larger pulmonary embolisms, respiratory complications, or chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (where blood pressure remains high in the lungs after the clot resolves).

#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Maintaining an active lifestyle and avoiding prolonged immobility.
- Weight management and smoking cessation.
- Use of compression stockings or anticoagulant medication post-surgery or during long periods of inactivity.

#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Seek immediate medical attention if you experience sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, or cough up blood.

#### Additional Resources
- American Lung Association (www.lung.org)
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (www.cdc.gov)
- Patient support groups for individuals with pulmonary embolism

#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure the documentation specifies "without acute cor pulmonale" when coding I26.93.
- Confirm the diagnosis with imaging or diagnostic tests in patient records.
- Avoid coding errors by differentiating between single subsegmental embolism and more extensive pulmonary embolisms.

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