Arteriovenous fistula, acquired

This code describes an abnormal, direct connection between an artery and a vein that develops after birth. This bypasses the capillary bed, leading to shunting of blood and potential complications such as high-output heart failure or distal ischemia. It is not congenital in origin.

Use this code for documented cases of an acquired arteriovenous fistula, such as those resulting from trauma, infection, or iatrogenic causes (e.g., post-catheterization). Documentation should clearly indicate the acquired nature of the fistula and rule out congenital or dialysis-related shunts.

• Carefully review documentation to differentiate between acquired and congenital arteriovenous malformations (Q27.3-).
• Do not use this code for arteriovenous shunts created for dialysis access (Z99.2).
• For traumatic fistulas, prioritize the injury code if the fistula is a direct result of the trauma and still within the acute injury phase.