Unspecified atrial fibrillation

This code signifies an irregular and often rapid heart rhythm originating in the atria, where the specific type or pattern of atrial fibrillation (e.g., paroxysmal, persistent, permanent) has not been documented by the provider. It indicates that the patient has atrial fibrillation, but further detail regarding its chronicity or presentation is absent from the medical record.

This code is appropriate when the physician's documentation clearly states "atrial fibrillation" without specifying if it is paroxysmal, persistent, or permanent. It should be used when the medical record lacks the necessary information to assign a more specific code for the type of atrial fibrillation. If the provider documents "AFib" without further clarification, this code is the most appropriate choice.

• Avoid using this code if the documentation provides any indication of the type of atrial fibrillation (e.g., "new onset AFib," "chronic AFib").
• Query the provider for clarification on the type of atrial fibrillation if possible, to allow for more specific code assignment.
• This code is often sequenced as a primary diagnosis when atrial fibrillation is the reason for the encounter, or as a secondary diagnosis when it is a co-morbidity.