Local Infection Due to Central Venous Catheter, Initial Encounter (ICD Code: T80.212A)

Name of the Condition

• Local infection due to central venous catheter.

Summary

• This condition represents an infection occurring at the insertion site of a central venous catheter. Such catheters are used for administering medication, fluids, or for collecting blood tests, and the infection is localized to the point of entry into the body.

Causes

• Caused primarily by bacterial entry into the body at the catheter site, often due to improper sterile techniques during insertion or maintenance.

Risk Factors

• Increased risk is associated with prolonged catheter use, compromised immune systems, improper catheter care, and existing chronic illnesses like diabetes.

Symptoms

• Redness, swelling, warmth, or tenderness at the catheter site. Fever and chills may occur if the infection progresses.

Diagnosis

• Diagnosis typically includes physical examination of the site, blood cultures, and possibly imaging if deeper infection is suspected.

Treatment Options

• Treatment may involve local wound care, removal of the catheter, and antibiotics to target the specific bacteria involved. Proper sterilization and care can prevent infection.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Good prognosis with appropriate treatment. Follow-up involves monitoring for signs of systemic infection and ensuring proper catheter handling techniques.

Complications

• If untreated, infections can spread to the bloodstream, leading to more serious complications like sepsis or thrombophlebitis.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Adherence to strict sterile techniques during catheter insertion and routine care is crucial. Regular hand washing and monitoring of the catheter site for early signs of infection are also important preventive measures.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Seek immediate medical attention if there is increased redness, swelling, pain, or pus at the catheter site, or if systemic symptoms like fever or chills develop.

Additional Resources

• For more information, consult websites like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Association for Vascular Access (AVA).

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure you're coding for the initial encounter of this condition. Be aware of different codes for subsequent encounters or complications if the infection spreads or is recurrent. Correctly determine and document the site-specific nature of the infection versus systemic involvement.