Constrictive pericarditis

This code represents a chronic inflammatory condition of the pericardium where the sac surrounding the heart becomes thickened, fibrotic, and often calcified. This rigid pericardium restricts the heart's ability to fill properly, leading to impaired diastolic function and symptoms of heart failure.

Use this code for documented cases of constrictive pericarditis, typically confirmed through imaging studies such as echocardiography, CT, or MRI, showing pericardial thickening and signs of ventricular restriction. It is appropriate when the physician explicitly diagnoses this specific form of pericardial disease.

• Differentiate from other forms of pericarditis (e.g., acute, chronic effusive) which have distinct codes.
• Look for documentation of impaired diastolic filling and signs of systemic venous congestion.
• Consider sequencing this code as a primary diagnosis when it is the main reason for the encounter or hospitalization.