ICD-10-CM Billable Code

H31.319

Expulsive choroidal hemorrhage, unspecified eye

Clinical Classification Guidelines

Medical Intelligence & Overview

Expulsive choroidal hemorrhage is a serious eye condition characterized by a sudden, intense bleeding within the eye, specifically in the choroid—the layer of blood vessels between the retina and the sclera. This condition often leads to rapid deterioration of vision and requires urgent medical attention. When the hemorrhage is described as 'expulsive,' it indicates a severe, forceful bleeding event that can cause significant damage to the eye’s structures, potentially leading to vision loss or the need for surgical intervention.

Causes & Symptoms

Clinical Causes: Trauma or injury to the eye, such as blunt force or penetrating wounds Complications following eye surgery, particularly cataract surgery or vitrectomy Sudden increase in intraocular pressure due to conditions like glaucoma Vascular disorders that weaken blood vessel walls Blood clotting abnormalities or use of anticoagulant medications Pre-existing eye conditions that predispose blood vessel rupture

Key Symptoms: Sudden loss or decrease in vision Severe eye pain or discomfort Visible redness and swelling of the eye Sudden appearance of a dark or cloudy area in the field of vision Possible loss of eye movement or sensation, depending on severity Signs of eye bulging or proptosis in severe cases

Diagnostic & Treatment

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis typically involves a comprehensive eye examination by an ophthalmologist, including slit-lamp examination and ophthalmoscopy to observe the extent of hemorrhage. Imaging studies such as ultrasound B-scan are often used to assess the interior of the eye when opacities prevent direct visualization. The healthcare provider may also review the patient's medical history, including recent trauma or eye surgery, and perform additional tests to identify underlying causes like vascular abnormalities or coagulopathies.

Treatment Protocols: Management of expulsive choroidal hemorrhage usually requires urgent eye care and may involve a combination of approaches, such as: - Immediate measures to lower intraocular pressure - Surgical interventions, including vitrectomy or drainage procedures, to remove the accumulated blood and relieve pressure - Addressing underlying causes, such as controlling blood pressure or stopping blood-thinning medications - Post-operative care with medications to prevent infection and manage inflammation - Long-term follow-up to monitor for complications like retinal detachment or secondary scarring Note that the specific treatment plan depends on the severity of the hemorrhage and the patient's overall health. Due to the potentially devastating impact on vision, rapid medical response is essential.

Reimbursement claims with a date of service on or after October 1, 2015 require the use of ICD-10-CM codes.

Clinical Advice & FAQs

Billing Guidance

Is H31.319 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, H31.319 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.

Documentation

How do I report H31.319?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Expulsive choroidal hemorrhage, unspecified eye and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.

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