Varicose veins of low extrm in pregnancy, second trimester

This code signifies the presence of abnormally dilated, tortuous veins in the lower extremities that develop or are exacerbated during the second trimester of pregnancy. These varicose veins are a common physiological change in pregnancy, often due to increased blood volume and uterine pressure. The condition can cause symptoms such as pain, aching, heaviness, and swelling.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a pregnant patient in her second trimester is diagnosed with varicose veins specifically affecting the lower limbs. Supporting documentation should include the gestational age or trimester and a confirmed diagnosis of varicose veins. This code is appropriate for both new onset and pre-existing varicose veins that are symptomatic during this period.

• Always confirm the trimester of pregnancy from the medical record; incorrect trimester assignment is a common error.
• Distinguish from varicose veins without pregnancy (I83.-) or those occurring in other trimesters (O22.01, O22.03).
• Sequence this code as a secondary diagnosis when the primary reason for the encounter is related to the varicose veins, or as a co-morbidity when the primary reason is unrelated.