Pre-existing secondary hypertension comp the puerperium

This code signifies a patient experiencing elevated blood pressure that existed prior to pregnancy and has persisted or worsened during the postpartum period. This hypertension is a secondary form, meaning it's caused by an underlying condition, and is now complicating the puerperium.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a pre-existing diagnosis of secondary hypertension that is actively complicating the patient's recovery during the six-week postpartum period. Supporting documentation should specify the secondary nature of the hypertension and its impact on the puerperal course.

• Always code the underlying cause of the secondary hypertension first, if known and documented.
• Distinguish carefully from gestational hypertension or pre-eclampsia, which are distinct conditions.
• Ensure the documentation explicitly states "puerperium" or a timeframe within the postpartum period.