Ventricular septal defect

This code represents a congenital heart defect characterized by an opening in the septum that separates the left and right ventricles of the heart. This opening allows oxygenated blood from the left ventricle to mix with deoxygenated blood in the right ventricle, leading to shunting and potential hemodynamic compromise. The size and location of the defect determine the severity of symptoms.

Use this code when documentation clearly identifies a ventricular septal defect (VSD) as the patient's diagnosis. This applies to both newly diagnosed cases and established VSDs requiring ongoing management. Supporting documentation includes echocardiogram reports, cardiac catheterization findings, and physician notes detailing the presence of a VSD.

• Do not confuse with atrial septal defect (ASD); ensure the documentation specifies the ventricular septum.
• Specify any associated congenital anomalies if documented, using additional codes.
• Consider sequencing this code as the primary diagnosis if it is the reason for the encounter or the main condition being treated.