ICD-10 Code I71.01 – Dissection of thoracic aorta (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code I71.01 – Dissection of thoracic aorta
What it is
This code identifies a tear in the inner layer of the thoracic aorta, allowing blood to split the vessel wall. It is used for dissection limited to the chest portion of the aorta.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly documented findings include sudden chest or back pain, pulse deficits, or imaging evidence of thoracic aortic dissection.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents dissection of the thoracic aorta, including imaging-confirmed cases. Apply it when the record clearly identifies the thoracic segment and does not describe rupture or another aortic site. Check documentation if the anatomy is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for abdominal aortic dissection or aortic aneurysm without dissection. If the record states rupture, traumatic injury, or another specific aortic condition, code the documented diagnosis instead.
Coding tip
Confirm the exact aortic segment and whether the dissection is acute or chronic in the documentation.