Rupture of chordae tendineae

This code signifies the tearing or breaking of the chordae tendineae, the fibrous cords that anchor the heart's atrioventricular valves (mitral and tricuspid) to the papillary muscles. This rupture can lead to severe valvular regurgitation, most commonly mitral regurgitation, and subsequent heart failure.

Assign this code when documentation explicitly states a rupture of the chordae tendineae, whether acute or chronic, and regardless of the underlying cause (e.g., endocarditis, myocardial infarction, trauma, or degenerative changes). Supporting documentation would include echocardiogram reports, surgical notes, or physician progress notes detailing the diagnosis.

• Always specify the affected valve (e.g., mitral, tricuspid) if documented, as this can impact subsequent coding in newer code sets.
• Code any underlying cause of the rupture (e.g., acute myocardial infarction, endocarditis) as a primary or secondary diagnosis, following sequencing guidelines.
• Distinguish from other forms of valvular insufficiency or prolapse where the chordae tendineae are intact but dysfunctional.