ICD-10 Coding for Acute Diverticulitis(K57.32, K57.33)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Acute Diverticulitis. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Acute Diverticulitis
K57.3-K57.5Primary Range
Diverticulitis of intestine, part unspecified, with perforation and abscess
This range includes codes for diverticulitis with complications such as perforation or abscess, which are critical for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| K57.32 | Diverticulitis of large intestine without perforation or abscess | Use when imaging confirms diverticulitis without evidence of perforation or abscess. |
|
| K57.33 | Diverticulitis of large intestine with perforation and abscess | Use when imaging confirms diverticulitis with perforation or abscess. |
|
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 acute diverticulitis with abscess
Essential facts and insights about Acute Diverticulitis
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for acute diverticulitis
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- CT scan shows diverticulitis without perforation or abscess.
Applicable To
- Acute diverticulitis of sigmoid colon without perforation or abscess
Excludes
- Diverticulosis without diverticulitis (K57.30)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- CT scan showing inflammation without perforation or abscess
- Elevated WBC count and CRP levels
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification if imaging findings are not clearly documented.
Coding Notes
- Ensure imaging reports are reviewed to confirm absence of perforation or abscess.
K57.33 - Diverticulitis of large intestine with perforation and abscess
Use when imaging confirms diverticulitis with perforation or abscess.
Applicable To
- Acute diverticulitis with abscess formation
Excludes
- Diverticulosis without diverticulitis (K57.30)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- CT scan showing perforation or abscess
- Elevated WBC count and CRP levels
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation explicitly states 'perforation' or 'abscess'.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Acute Diverticulitis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K57.32.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment decisions., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims due to insufficient documentation.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure all imaging results are included in the patient's record., Use templates that prompt for imaging details.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data affecting patient care.
Mitigation Strategy
Verify documentation for signs of inflammation or infection.
Impact
Audits may focus on the accuracy of documented complications.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure all imaging and lab results are thoroughly documented.
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 Acute Diverticulitis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Acute Diverticulitis
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Acute Diverticulitis. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Emergency Department Visit for Acute Diverticulitis
Specialty: Emergency MedicineRequired Elements
- History of present illness
- Imaging results
- Lab results
- Assessment and plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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