Hypertonic, incoordinate, and prolonged uterine contractions

This code signifies abnormal uterine contraction patterns during labor characterized by excessive tone, lack of coordination, and extended duration. These dysfunctional contractions are ineffective in achieving cervical dilation and fetal descent, often leading to labor arrest.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates hypertonic, incoordinate, or prolonged uterine contractions as the cause of labor dystocia. This typically involves findings from tocography, palpation, or patient reports of intense, ineffective contractions without adequate cervical change.

• Ensure the documentation specifies the type of dysfunctional uterine activity (hypertonic, incoordinate, prolonged) rather than just "labor dystocia."
• Do not code this with O66.9 (dystocia, NOS) as per the Excludes1 note; this code provides more specificity.
• Consider sequencing this code as the primary diagnosis when it is the main reason for the encounter and intervention.