Presence of fully implantable artificial heart

This code indicates the presence of a completely implanted artificial heart, also known as a total artificial heart (TAH). This device fully replaces the native ventricles of the heart, taking over the pumping function of both sides of the heart. It is a permanent or bridge-to-transplant solution for end-stage biventricular heart failure.

Use this code for patients who have undergone implantation of a total artificial heart. This code should be reported as a secondary diagnosis to indicate the patient's current status with the implanted device. It is appropriate for follow-up encounters, device management, or when the presence of the TAH impacts treatment decisions for other conditions.

• Always assign this code as a secondary diagnosis, never as a primary.
• Do not confuse this with codes for ventricular assist devices (VADs), which only support one or both ventricles rather than replacing them entirely.
• Ensure documentation clearly specifies a "fully implantable artificial heart" or "total artificial heart" to support this code.