I74.10 Embolism and thrombosis of unspecified parts of aorta

ICD10CM code

#### Name of the Condition
- **Embolism and Thrombosis of Unspecified Parts of Aorta (ICD-10: I74.10)**
- Commonly referred to as aortic embolism or aortic thrombosis.

#### Summary
- This condition involves the blockage of blood flow in the aorta due to an embolus (a traveling blood clot or other debris) or a thrombus (a blood clot that forms in place). The aorta is the main artery that supplies blood to the body, and blockages can impede circulation.

#### Causes
- Common causes include atherosclerosis (plaque buildup inside arteries), heart conditions such as atrial fibrillation that lead to clot formation, and certain inherited blood clotting disorders.

#### Risk Factors
- Risk factors include advanced age, a history of cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, and sedentary lifestyle. Conditions like atrial fibrillation or heart valve disease also increase risk.

#### Symptoms
- Symptoms may range from sudden onset chest pain, back pain, or abdominal pain, to symptoms of organ ischemia depending on blockage location. Shortness of breath, dizziness, or loss of consciousness may also occur.

#### Diagnosis
- Diagnosis is usually confirmed through imaging studies such as CT angiography, MRI, or ultrasound, which can visualize the blockage. Blood tests may also be conducted to assess clotting function.

#### Treatment Options
- Treatment may include anticoagulant or thrombolytic medications to dissolve clots, as well as surgical interventions like thrombectomy or angioplasty. In severe cases, open surgery might be necessary to remove the blockage.

#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- The prognosis varies depending on the location and severity of the blockage. Prompt treatment generally leads to better outcomes. Regular follow-up is crucial to monitor for renewed clot formation and to manage underlying risk factors.

#### Complications
- Possible complications include organ damage due to restricted blood flow, stroke, or further cardiovascular events. Chronic effects can occur if the condition is not adequately treated.

#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Preventive measures include maintaining a healthy diet, regular physical activity, quitting smoking, controlling blood pressure and cholesterol, and adhering to prescribed medications for existing conditions like atrial fibrillation.

#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Immediate medical attention is necessary if experiencing sudden chest pain, severe back pain, difficulty breathing, fainting, or any symptoms of stroke such as sudden weakness or numbness.

#### Additional Resources
- American Heart Association: [heart.org](https://www.heart.org)
- National Blood Clot Alliance: [stoptheclot.org](https://www.stoptheclot.org)
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: [cdc.gov](https://www.cdc.gov)

#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure specificity in coding by confirming details about the blockage site when available. 
- A common mistake is confusion with embolisms in other locations, so verify the case pertains specifically to the aorta when using I74.10.

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