Breakdown of surgically created AV fistula, subs

This code signifies a mechanical failure or malfunction of an arteriovenous fistula (AVF) that was surgically created for hemodialysis access. This breakdown is not due to infection or a primary complication of the initial surgery, but rather a structural or functional issue occurring after the initial post-operative period.

Apply this code when a patient presents for follow-up care, evaluation, or treatment of a mechanical problem with their AVF, such as thrombosis, stenosis, or aneurysm formation, that is not a direct result of the initial surgical procedure. This would include situations where the patient is undergoing a procedure to revise or repair the malfunctioning fistula.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies a mechanical breakdown and not an infectious or immediate post-operative complication.
• The "D" in the seventh character indicates a subsequent encounter, meaning the patient is receiving routine care during the healing or recovery phase, or treatment for a complication that arose after the initial treatment.
• Do not use for initial complications of the AVF creation; those would typically fall under the "A" (initial encounter) seventh character.