ICD-10 Code I71.02 – Dissection of abdominal aorta (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code I71.02 – Dissection of abdominal aorta
What it is
ICD-10 code I71.02 identifies a tear in the abdominal aorta wall that allows blood to separate the vessel layers. It documents an abdominal aortic dissection, not a simple aneurysm or generalized aortic disease.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical findings may include sudden abdominal, back, or flank pain, and imaging may show a dissecting flap in the abdominal aorta.
When to use this code
Use I71.02 when the provider documents dissection of the abdominal aorta, including acute or chronic cases if no more specific code is given. Code it from imaging, operative, or discharge documentation that clearly identifies the abdominal segment. Check documentation if the record also mentions rupture or thoracoabdominal involvement.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for an abdominal aortic aneurysm without dissection. Do not assign it when the dissection is limited to the thoracic aorta or when the documentation is unclear.
Coding tip
Verify the exact aortic segment and whether rupture is documented before selecting I71.02.