Back to HomeBeta

ICD-10 Coding for Abdominal Mass(R19.00, R19.06)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Abdominal Mass. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Abd MassIntra-abdominal Massabdomen massabdominal swellingpelvic mass

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Abdominal Mass

R19.0-Primary Range

Other and unspecified intra-abdominal mass and lump

This range covers unspecified and specific abdominal masses, essential for coding when the mass is the primary focus without a confirmed etiology.

Neoplasms

Used when the abdominal mass is confirmed to be due to a neoplastic process.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
R19.00Intra-abdominal mass, unspecified siteUse when the mass is detected but the specific site is not documented.
  • Physical exam findings of a palpable mass
  • Imaging studies confirming presence of mass
R19.06Epigastric massUse when the mass is specifically located in the epigastric region.
  • Physical exam findings of a mass in the epigastric region
  • Imaging studies confirming presence of mass

Clinical Decision Support

Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for abdominal mass

Essential facts and insights about Abdominal Mass

The ICD-10 code for an unspecified abdominal mass is R19.00, with specific codes available for different quadrants.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for abd mass

Intra-abdominal mass, unspecified site
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

documentation Criteria

  • Document specific location and characteristics of the mass.

Applicable To

  • Abdominal mass NOS

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Physical exam findings of a palpable mass
  • Imaging studies confirming presence of mass

Code-Specific Risks

  • Overuse due to lack of specific site documentation

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies the quadrant or site to avoid unspecified coding.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Personal history of malignant neoplasm of digestive organs

Z85.0
Use when there is a history of malignancy related to the mass.

Acute pancreatitis, unspecified

K85.9
Use when the mass is associated with pancreatitis.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Malignant neoplasm of stomach, unspecified

C16.9
Use when the mass is confirmed to be gastric cancer.

Abdominal aortic aneurysm, without rupture

I71.4
Use when the mass is pulsatile and imaging confirms an aneurysm.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Abdominal Mass to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R19.00.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to incorrect diagnosis and treatment planning., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims due to lack of specificity.

Mitigation Strategy

Train staff on the importance of detailed documentation., Use templates to ensure all necessary details are captured.

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to lower reimbursement due to lack of specificity., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines requiring specificity., Data Quality: Decreases data accuracy for clinical research and audits.

Mitigation Strategy

Document and code the specific quadrant to avoid unspecified coding.

Impact

High risk of audits due to frequent use of unspecified codes.

Mitigation Strategy

Encourage detailed documentation and use of specific codes.

Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Abdominal Mass, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Abdominal Mass

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Abdominal Mass. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Surgical Pre-Op Assessment

Specialty: Surgery

Required Elements

  • Location of mass
  • Size and consistency
  • Imaging results
  • Associated symptoms

Example Documentation

Abdominal Mass Assessment: Location: RLQ, 4 cm from McBurney's point. Palpation: Fixed, irregular borders, tender to deep pressure. Imaging: CT abdomen/pelvis with contrast shows 4.1x3.7 cm heterogenous mass involving ileocecal valve. Associated Symptoms: 10 lb weight loss, hematochezia x 3 weeks. Plan: Colonoscopy with biopsy.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Abdomen tender with mass.
Good Documentation Example
3 cm firm, fixed mass palpated in RLQ with rebound tenderness. CT confirms 3.2x2.8 cm irregular mass adjacent to cecum.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details about the mass, including size, location, and imaging confirmation, which are necessary for accurate coding.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Abdominal Mass? Ask your questions below.

Ask about any ICD-10 CM code, or paste a medical note

We build tools for
clinician happiness.

Learn More at Freed.ai
Back to HomeBeta

Built by Freed

Try Freed for free for 7 days.

Learn more