Rheumatic aortic stenosis

This code signifies a narrowing of the aortic valve opening caused by rheumatic fever. This stenosis obstructs blood flow from the left ventricle to the aorta, leading to increased pressure and potential heart failure. It is a chronic condition resulting from damage sustained during an acute rheumatic fever episode.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states "rheumatic aortic stenosis" or when a history of rheumatic fever is linked to current aortic valve stenosis. Supporting documentation typically includes echocardiogram reports confirming aortic valve narrowing and physician notes detailing the etiology. This code is appropriate for both initial and subsequent encounters for this chronic condition.

• Differentiate from non-rheumatic aortic stenosis (I35.0) which has different etiologies.
• Ensure the documentation clearly links the stenosis to a rheumatic origin; otherwise, use a non-rheumatic code.
• Consider sequencing with codes for heart failure (I50.-) if present, as the stenosis often leads to cardiac decompensation.