O62.4
Hypertonic, incoordinate, and prolonged uterine contractions
Clinical Classification Guidelines
Inclusion Terms
- Cervical spasm
- Contraction ring dystocia
- Dyscoordinate labor
- Hour-glass contraction of uterus
- Hypertonic uterine dysfunction
- Incoordinate uterine action
- Tetanic contractions
- Uterine dystocia NOS
- Uterine spasm
Excludes Type 1
- dystocia (fetal) (maternal) NOS (O66.9)
Medical Intelligence & Overview
ICD-10 code O62.4 pertains to a specific pattern of labor related to abnormal uterine contractions. This condition involves hypertonic (excessively strong or sustained), incoordinate (unsynchronized), and prolonged contractions of the uterus during childbirth. These uterine activity issues can influence labor progress and pose challenges for both the mother and baby. Recognizing this condition is important for appropriate management during labor, as it may require medical intervention to ensure safety and effectiveness of delivery.
Causes & Symptoms
Clinical Causes: Uterine over-stimulation due to oxytocin administration Infection or inflammation leading to abnormal uterine activity Uterine structural anomalies or scarring Hormonal imbalances affecting uterine contractility Fetal distress prompting abnormal uterine activity Electrolyte disturbances impacting muscle contractions Previous uterine surgeries or trauma affecting contractility Anxiety or stress affecting labor progression
Key Symptoms: Persistent, intense abdominal or uterine contractions Lack of progress in dilation or fetal descent despite strong contractions Ineffectiveness of contractions in advancing labor Maternal discomfort or fatigue from prolonged contractions Fetal distress signs such as abnormal heart rate patterns Feeling of uterine tightening without relief between contractions Possible signs of exhausted uterine muscle, like tetanic contractions Difficulty in relaxing the uterus between contractions
Diagnostic & Treatment
Diagnosis Path: The diagnosis of hypertonic, incoordinate, and prolonged uterine contractions is primarily clinical, supported by maternal and fetal monitoring. Healthcare providers monitor contraction patterns using electronic fetal monitoring or tocodynamometry, which records contraction strength, duration, and frequency. A detailed obstetric history, physical examination, and assessment of labor progress are essential. In some cases, imaging or additional testing might be used to evaluate uterine activity and rule out other causes of labor abnormalities.
Treatment Protocols: Administering medications such as tocolytics to relax the uterus if contractions are excessive or prolonged Adjusting or discontinuing labor-inducing agents like oxytocin to reduce hyperstimulation Providing pain relief to improve maternal comfort, which may help normalize contractions Positioning and hydration strategies to support uterine relaxation and proper blood flow Monitoring fetal well-being continuously to detect signs of fetal distress In some cases, cesarean delivery may be necessary if labor cannot progress safely
Clinical Advice & FAQs
Billing Guidance
Is O62.4 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, O62.4 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.
Documentation
How do I report O62.4?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Hypertonic, incoordinate, and prolonged uterine contractions and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.
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