Get Ready for ICD-10 Terminology

Most physicians are aware that ICD-10 coding is on the horizon and begrudge the expansion of the numerical system with its purported value of greater specificity if used according to plan. But did you know that it will require you to throw out old terms and bring in some new? Here are a few examples:

Amputation                 Detachment

Cesarean Section       Extraction of products of conception

Tracheotomy               Bypass

Incision                       No term (not recognized)

Arthroscopy                Inspection, Endoscopic Approach

Closed Reduction        Reposition of xxxxx

Physicians will be stumbling over these new phrases for quite a while, but just think about the retraining of all the billing staffs in the back rooms of practices or hospitals throughout the country. As Yogi Berra might say, it’s Y2K all over again.