Choanal atresia

This code identifies a congenital anomaly characterized by the complete or partial obstruction of the posterior nasal aperture (choana) by bone or soft tissue. This blockage prevents airflow between the nasal cavity and the nasopharynx, often leading to significant respiratory distress in neonates. It can be unilateral or bilateral.

Use this code when documentation confirms a diagnosis of choanal atresia, whether bony, membranous, complete, or incomplete. This diagnosis is typically made at birth or shortly thereafter due to symptoms like cyanosis during feeding, cyclical respiratory distress, or inability to pass a catheter through the nasal passages.

• Specify laterality if documented (e.g., unilateral right, unilateral left, bilateral).
• Distinguish between bony and membranous types if the documentation provides this detail, although this code does not differentiate.
• Consider co-occurring congenital anomalies, as choanal atresia is often associated with other syndromes (e.g., CHARGE syndrome).