VARICOSE VEINS PATHOPHYSIOLOGY AND TREATMENT Flashcards
(22 cards)
What is the primary function of veins in the leg?
To circulate blood from the toes to the heart through one-way bicuspid valves
What happens when the valves in the veins are weak or damaged?
Blood collects in the legs and feet, leading to a buildup of pressure
What are the visible characteristics of varicose veins?
Dark blue, swollen, and twisted veins
Name some mild symptoms of varicose veins.
- Burning
- Aching
- Tiredness in the legs
- Swelling in the feet and ankles
What are some acute symptoms of varicose veins?
- Swelling in the leg
- Calf pain after sitting or standing
- Dry, thin skin or open sores
What composes the circulatory system?
- Heart
- Veins
- Arteries
What is the role of arteries in the circulatory system?
To pump out oxygen and nutrient-rich blood to the rest of the body
What is the ICD-10-CM diagnosis code for varicose veins?
C. varix
What is a varix or varices classified by?
The symptoms it causes
What is a key consideration for procedures to remove asymptomatic varicose veins?
They are usually not covered by most payers as they are considered cosmetic surgery
What anatomical sites are used to classify varices?
Varices are classified by their anatomical site
What coding chapter should be referenced for varices that cause complications during pregnancy?
Chapter 15
What coding chapter should congenital varices be coded from?
Chapter 17
List some open surgical techniques to treat varicose veins.
- Ligation
- Ligation and division
- Ligation, division, and stripping
- Stab phlebectomy
What is involved in a ligation procedure?
Making an incision to suture or clip the varicosity
Where is stripping typically performed in the treatment of varicose veins?
In the groin area or behind the knee
What does a stab phlebectomy involve?
A small incision to remove small varicose veins
What should be documented for assigning the correct code for a stab phlebectomy?
The number of incisions
What does the postoperative diagnosis of symptomatic varicose veins in the right lower extremity include?
Incompetent greater saphenous vein in the right thigh
What is the ICD-10-CM code for varicose veins of the right lower extremities with other complications?
I83.891
What code refers to varicose veins of the right lower extremities with pain?
I83.811
What should be looked for in the ICD-10-CM Alphabetic Index to find the code for incompetent greater saphenous vein?
Terms like incompetency, incompetent, incompetence, vein
