ICD-10 Coding for Acute Sigmoid Diverticulitis(K57.32, K57.33)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Acute Sigmoid Diverticulitis. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Acute Sigmoid Diverticulitis
K57.3Primary Range
Diverticulitis of large intestine
This range includes codes for diverticulitis of the large intestine, specifically the sigmoid colon, with or without complications.
Peritonitis
This range includes codes for peritoneal conditions that may occur as complications of diverticulitis, such as abscesses.
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 perforation or abscess. |
|
| K57.33 | Diverticulitis of large intestine with perforation and abscess | Use when imaging confirms perforation and 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 sigmoid diverticulitis with abscess
Essential facts and insights about Acute Sigmoid Diverticulitis
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for acute sigmoid diverticulitis
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- CT scan without evidence of perforation or abscess.
Applicable To
- Acute sigmoid diverticulitis without perforation or abscess
Excludes
- Diverticulitis with perforation or abscess (K57.33)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- CT scan showing sigmoid wall thickening and pericolonic fat stranding
- Leukocytosis >11,000/mm³
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification if perforation or abscess is present but not documented.
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies absence of perforation or abscess.
K57.33 - Diverticulitis of large intestine with perforation and abscess
Use when imaging confirms perforation and abscess.
Applicable To
- Acute sigmoid diverticulitis with perforation and abscess
Excludes
- Diverticulitis without perforation or abscess (K57.32)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- CT scan showing extraluminal air or fluid collection
- WBC >15,000/mm³
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation specifies presence of perforation and abscess.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Acute Sigmoid 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: Misdiagnosis risk due to lack of specificity., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential revenue loss from incorrect coding.
Mitigation Strategy
Use specific terms like 'sigmoid' and 'with abscess'., Ensure imaging findings are documented.
Impact
Reimbursement: Potential underpayment due to incorrect DRG assignment., Compliance: Risk of audit failure due to incomplete documentation., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data affecting patient records.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure imaging and clinical findings are clearly documented.
Impact
Risk of audit failure if abscess or perforation not documented.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure detailed imaging and clinical notes are included.
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 Sigmoid Diverticulitis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Acute Sigmoid Diverticulitis
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Acute Sigmoid Diverticulitis. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Acute sigmoid diverticulitis with abscess
Specialty: GastroenterologyRequired Elements
- Patient history
- Physical exam findings
- Imaging results
- Laboratory results
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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