Valve Leaflet Splitting

A procedure known as the ShortCutä or valve leaflet splitting is the topic of “In the kNOW” this month. This device, which is shown below, is used when patients have had a previous transcatheter aortic valve replacement and are returning for a valve-in-valve procedure. When the new valve is placed, there is the potential for one of the leaflets that was already in place to cause an obstruction in the coronary flow. The mortality associated with that complication is about 50%.

This new procedure is a preventative measure to ensure that a blockage does not occur. Prior to the new valve being inserted, the ShortCutä catheter is used to split the leaflet and create a pathway for blood to flow. 

With younger individuals having valve replacements, the need for valve-in-valve replacements will grow. The current replacement valves have about a 10-year life span. This new technology will facilitate a safer transcatheter valve-in-valve procedure. 

 

Source: https://www.hmpgloballearningnetwork.com/site/cathlab/meeting-update/shortcut-pivotal-trial-dedicated-valve-leaflet-splitting-device

 

Here is the table for the leaflet splitting device in ICD-10-PCS.

The full code assignment would be X28F3VA. Coding professionals should ensure that if a new valve is placed during the same encounter as the leaflet splitting, an additional code from Med/Surg, Heart and Great Vessels, Replacement table should also be assigned.

Now you are In the kNOW!!

About the Author

Dianna Foley, RHIA, CHPS, CCS, CDIP, has 25 years of HIM experience. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Cincinnati and holds RHIA, CHPS, CDIP, and CCS certifications from AHIMA. Dianna’s an AHIMA-approved ICD-10-CM/PCS trainer, an AHIMA-published author, a participant in AHIMA credential item writing and exam development, and served on the AHIMA Nominating Committee. Dianna has held various HIM positions and is now an independent coding consultant. She previously served as Eastern Gateway Community College’s program director for Medical Coding and HIT. She presents on coding topics at the national, state, and regional levels and serves as OHIMA’s Education Coordinator.