ICD Code I21.4

ICD code I21.4 is used to classify a Non-ST elevation (NSTEMI) myocardial infarction, which is a type of heart attack that does not show the classic elevation in the ST segment on an electrocardiogram (ECG). This condition indicates that there is a partial blockage of a coronary artery, leading to reduced blood flow to the heart muscle, but not a complete blockage. It requires prompt medical attention to prevent further cardiac damage.

1. Chest Pain: The patient experiences chest pain or discomfort, often described as pressure, squeezing, or fullness, which may radiate to the arms, neck, jaw, or back.

2. Elevated Cardiac Biomarkers: Laboratory tests reveal elevated levels of cardiac biomarkers, such as troponin, indicating myocardial injury.

3. Electrocardiogram (ECG) Changes: The ECG shows specific changes, such as ST-segment depression or T-wave inversion, but does not display the ST-segment elevation characteristic of STEMI.

4. Risk Factors for Coronary Artery Disease: The patient has a history of risk factors such as hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, smoking, or a family history of coronary artery disease.

5. Previous Episodes: The patient may have a history of angina or previous myocardial infarctions, which can contribute to the diagnosis.

6. Clinical Presentation: The patient presents with symptoms consistent with acute coronary syndrome, such as shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, diaphoresis, or lightheadedness.

7. Exclusion of Other Causes: Other potential causes of chest pain and elevated cardiac biomarkers, such as pulmonary embolism or pericarditis, have been ruled out through clinical evaluation and diagnostic testing.

8. Response to Treatment: The patient's symptoms and ECG changes may improve with appropriate medical treatment, such as antiplatelet therapy, anticoagulation, or beta-blockers, supporting the diagnosis of NSTEMI.

For the ICD code I21.4, which corresponds to Non-ST elevation (NSTEMI) myocardial infarction, the relevant CPT codes that may be applicable for treatment include:

1. 92928 - Percutaneous transcatheter placement of intracoronary stent(s), with coronary angioplasty when performed; single major coronary artery or branch.

2. 92941 - Percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty; single vessel or branch, during acute myocardial infarction, including aspiration thrombectomy when performed.

3. 93458 - Catheter placement in coronary artery(s) for coronary angiography, including intraprocedural injections for coronary angiography, imaging supervision and interpretation; with left heart catheterization including intraprocedural injections for left ventriculography, when performed.

4. 99291 - Critical care, evaluation and management of the critically ill or critically injured patient; first 30-74 minutes.

5. 99292 - Critical care, evaluation and management of the critically ill or critically injured patient; each additional 30 minutes (List separately in addition to code for primary service).

These CPT codes are commonly associated with the procedures and management strategies for patients diagnosed with NSTEMI, as indicated by ICD code I21.4. It is important for healthcare providers to select the appropriate CPT codes based on the specific services rendered to ensure accurate billing and reimbursement.

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