In the realm of medical diagnostics, especially within obstetrics, precision in coding is paramount. The Diagnosis Code For Placental Abruption, specifically O45.90, plays a critical role in classifying and understanding this serious pregnancy complication. This code, under the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM), is designated for “Premature separation of placenta, unspecified, unspecified trimester.” Let’s delve deeper into what this code signifies and its importance in medical contexts.
O45.90: Breaking Down the Code
The ICD-10-CM code O45.90 is a billable and specific code used for reimbursement and statistical tracking. Effective since October 1, 2015, and updated annually, including in the 2025 edition, O45.90 is crucial for medical professionals dealing with maternal health.
- O45.90 falls under the category of codes for “Premature separation of placenta, unspecified.”
- The “.90” extension further specifies “unspecified trimester,” meaning the placental abruption occurred at an unknown point during the pregnancy.
ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code O45.90 for Placental Abruption – Medical Coding Reference
This specificity is essential for accurate record-keeping and claims processing. It is applicable to female patients within the maternity age range, typically 12 to 55 years old.
What is Placental Abruption?
Placental abruption, also known as premature separation of the placenta, is a condition where the placenta detaches from the uterus before the baby is born. This separation can be partial or complete and deprives the baby of oxygen and nutrients, often leading to significant complications for both mother and child.
Clinically, placental abruption is characterized by:
- Uterine Bleeding: Vaginal bleeding is a common symptom, though in some cases, the blood may be trapped behind the placenta (concealed abruption).
- Uterine Hypertonia: The uterus may become rigid and tense due to continuous contractions or blood accumulation.
- Fetal Distress: Signs of fetal distress can range from changes in fetal heart rate to fetal death, depending on the severity of the abruption.
The condition typically occurs after the 20th week of pregnancy and requires immediate medical attention.
Synonyms and Related Terms
Understanding the terminology around O45.90 is crucial. Synonyms for “Premature separation of placenta, unspecified” include:
- Placental abruption
- Abruptio placentae
These terms are used interchangeably in clinical practice to describe the same condition that O45.90 is designed to code.
Code History and Relevance
The code O45.90 has been consistently used since the inception of ICD-10-CM in 2016, with no significant changes through the 2025 update. This stability indicates its established role in the medical coding system. For healthcare providers and coders, it’s important to use the most current ICD-10-CM guidelines to ensure accurate coding for reimbursement and data analysis.
In conclusion, diagnosis code O45.90 is the designated code for placental abruption when the trimester is not specified. It is a vital tool for classifying this obstetric emergency, ensuring accurate medical records, and facilitating appropriate healthcare management for pregnant women experiencing this complication. Understanding this code is essential for anyone involved in medical coding, billing, and obstetric care.
