Atrioventricular block, complete

This code signifies a severe form of heart block where electrical impulses from the atria are completely blocked from reaching the ventricles. This results in the atria and ventricles beating independently, often leading to a very slow ventricular rate.

Assign this code when documentation clearly indicates a complete absence of conduction between the atria and ventricles, often evidenced by P waves and QRS complexes occurring independently on an EKG. This typically presents with symptoms such as syncope, dizziness, or profound bradycardia.

• Differentiate from other degrees of AV block (first-degree, second-degree Mobitz I or II) where some conduction is still present.
• Always review EKG interpretations and physician notes explicitly stating "complete AV block" or "third-degree AV block."
• Consider sequencing this as a primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter, especially for pacemaker implantation.