ICD-10 Code I70.218 – Atherosclerosis of native arteries of extremities with intermittent claudication, other extremity (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code I70.218 – Atherosclerosis of native arteries of extremities with intermittent claudication, other extremity
What it is
This code identifies atherosclerosis in a native artery of an extremity with intermittent claudication affecting an unspecified “other” limb. It means plaque buildup is reducing blood flow and causing exertional leg pain.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include pain or cramping in the affected extremity during walking that improves with rest. You may also see diminished pulses, cool skin, or other peripheral arterial disease features; clinical features vary, refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use I70.218 when the record clearly documents atherosclerosis of a native extremity artery with intermittent claudication and the involved limb is not otherwise specified by a more exact laterality code. It fits outpatient and inpatient diagnoses when the provider links the claudication to the arterial disease. Check documentation if the note only says peripheral vascular disease or leg pain without confirming atherosclerosis and claudication.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for claudication without documented atherosclerosis, or for pain from nonvascular causes. Do not assign it when a more specific extremity code is documented instead.
Coding tip
Confirm both “native arteries” and “intermittent claudication” are documented before coding, and match the extremity to the most specific available code.