Does the International Classification of Disease (ICD-9) code accurately identify neonates who clinically have hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy?

Background/aims: Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) refers to neonatal neurological signs and symptoms of hypoxia and/or ischemia. Our aim was to determine the accuracy of ICD-9 codes to identify newborns with HIE confirmed by umbilical cord blood analysis.

Methods: ICD-9 codes in the newborn chart for birth trauma, birth asphyxia, intrauterine hypoxia, and fetal distress were used to identify newborns with suspected HIE by neonatal personnel.