Acute embolism and thrombosis of inferior vena cava

This code describes the sudden blockage of the inferior vena cava (IVC) due to an embolus (a traveling clot) or a thrombus (a clot formed in situ). This acute obstruction can severely impede venous return from the lower body and abdominal organs, leading to significant clinical manifestations.

Apply this code for patients presenting with acute symptoms and diagnostic imaging (e.g., CT venography, MRI, ultrasound) confirming an embolism or thrombosis specifically located within the inferior vena cava. Documentation should clearly specify the acute nature of the event and the vessel involved.

• Differentiate between acute and chronic IVC thrombosis; this code is strictly for acute presentations.
• Ensure documentation specifies the inferior vena cava; other venous thromboses have different codes.
• Consider sequencing this code as a primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter, or as a secondary diagnosis if it complicates another primary condition.