ICD-10 Coding for Abdominal Distension(R14.0, K56.69)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Abdominal Distension. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Abdominal Distension
R10-R19Primary Range
Symptoms and signs involving the digestive system and abdomen
This range includes codes for abdominal symptoms, with R14.0 specifically for gaseous distension.
Other diseases of intestines
Includes codes for conditions like bowel obstruction and constipation, which can cause distension.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| R14.0 | Abdominal distension (gaseous) | Use when distension is due to gas and no other underlying condition is identified. |
|
| K56.69 | Other intestinal obstruction | Use when distension is due to bowel obstruction. |
|
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 distension
Essential facts and insights about Abdominal Distension
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for abdominal distension
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of tympany on percussion without fluid wave
documentation Criteria
- Detailed abdominal exam findings
Applicable To
- Bloating
- Tympanites
Excludes
- Ascites (R18.-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Tympany on percussion
- Absence of ascites on imaging
- Patient-reported bloating
Code-Specific Risks
- Misidentifying fluid distension as gaseous
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies gaseous nature of distension.
K56.69 - Other intestinal obstruction
Use when distension is due to bowel obstruction.
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Imaging showing obstruction
- Symptoms of bowel obstruction
Coding Notes
Ensure obstruction is documented with imaging.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Generalized abdominal pain
R10.84Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Abdominal Distension to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R14.0.
Impact
Clinical: Misrepresentation of patient condition., Regulatory: Potential audit issues., Financial: Denial of claims due to incorrect coding.
Mitigation Strategy
Confirm with imaging, Document percussion findings
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment leading to potential denials., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Use R18.- series for ascites confirmed by imaging.
Impact
Inaccurate documentation of distension type.
Mitigation Strategy
Use structured templates for abdominal exams.
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 Distension, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Abdominal Distension
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Abdominal Distension. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Gastroenterology Evaluation
Specialty: GastroenterologyRequired Elements
- Inspection findings
- Percussion notes
- Imaging results
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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