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Acute embolism and thrombosis of inferior vena cava

ICD10CM code
#### Name of the Condition
- **Acute embolism and thrombosis of inferior vena cava** (also known as IVC thromboembolism)

#### Summary
- Acute embolism and thrombosis of the inferior vena cava (IVC) is a condition where a blood clot forms in the inferior vena cava, a large vein that carries deoxygenated blood from the lower body to the heart, potentially causing severe complications.

#### Causes
- The condition is often caused by factors that promote blood clotting, such as prolonged immobility, injury to the blood vessel walls, surgery, or underlying clotting disorders.

#### Risk Factors
- Risk factors include a family history of blood clots, previous deep vein thrombosis, cancer, obesity, pregnancy, use of birth control pills or hormone therapy, and prolonged immobilization.

#### Symptoms
- Patients may experience swelling and pain in the abdomen or legs, discomfort when walking, and potential symptoms of pulmonary embolism if the clot travels to the lungs.

#### Diagnosis
- Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies, such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI, alongside blood tests including D-dimer to assess clot presence.

#### Treatment Options
- Treatments may include anticoagulant medications to prevent clot growth, thrombolytic therapy to dissolve existing clots, or surgical interventions like thrombectomy. In some cases, an IVC filter may be placed to prevent clots from reaching the lungs.

#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- The prognosis can vary depending on the severity and response to treatment. Regular follow-ups with imaging and blood tests are crucial to monitor clot resolution and prevent recurrence.

#### Complications
- If untreated, potential complications include pulmonary embolism, chronic venous insufficiency, post-thrombotic syndrome, and in severe cases, death.

#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Preventive measures include maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, avoiding long periods of immobility, and managing risk factors such as hypertension or diabetes. Compression stockings may also be recommended for certain individuals.

#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Seek immediate medical attention if experiencing symptoms such as sudden chest pain, difficulty breathing, fainting, or severe leg swelling.

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

#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure accurate coding by verifying the presence of an acute clot in the IVC.
- Cross-check with any documented imaging or test results for confirmation.
- Avoid confusion with chronic conditions or clots located in other vessels.

Medical Policies and Guidelines for Acute embolism and thrombosis of inferior vena cava

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