ICD-10 Coding for Bowel Perforation(K63.1, K35.2, K91.71)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Bowel Perforation. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Bowel Perforation
K63-K64Primary Range
Other diseases of intestine
This range includes codes for nontraumatic perforation of the intestine, which is the primary focus for bowel perforation coding.
Diseases of appendix
This range includes codes for appendicitis with perforation, which is a common cause of bowel perforation.
Intraoperative and postprocedural complications and disorders of digestive system
This range includes codes for complications such as accidental puncture or laceration during procedures, relevant for iatrogenic perforations.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| K63.1 | Perforation of intestine (nontraumatic) | Use for nontraumatic perforations not associated with another specific condition. |
|
| K35.2 | Acute appendicitis with perforation and peritonitis | Use when appendicitis leads to perforation and peritonitis. |
|
| K91.71 | Accidental puncture and laceration of a digestive system organ or structure during a procedure | Use for perforations occurring as a complication during a procedure. |
|
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 bowel perforation
Essential facts and insights about Bowel Perforation
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for bowel perforation
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- CT scan shows free air indicating perforation.
documentation Criteria
- Surgical report confirms nontraumatic perforation.
Applicable To
- Rectal perforation
Excludes
- Traumatic perforation (S36.4-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- CT scan showing free air or extraluminal contrast
- Surgical confirmation of perforation
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification as traumatic perforation
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies nontraumatic nature and location of perforation.
K35.2 - Acute appendicitis with perforation and peritonitis
Use when appendicitis leads to perforation and peritonitis.
Applicable To
- Perforated appendicitis
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Clinical signs of appendicitis with imaging or surgical confirmation of perforation
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation clearly links appendicitis to perforation.
K91.71 - Accidental puncture and laceration of a digestive system organ or structure during a procedure
Use for perforations occurring as a complication during a procedure.
Applicable To
- Iatrogenic perforation during procedure
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Operative report detailing accidental perforation during procedure
Coding Notes
Ensure linkage to the specific procedure and document clinical significance.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Generalized peritonitis
K65.0Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Injury of intestine
S36.4-Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Bowel Perforation to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K63.1.
Impact
Clinical: Inaccurate diagnosis and treatment plans., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials or reduced reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Use structured templates, Educate providers on documentation standards
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data affecting patient records.
Mitigation Strategy
Use S36.4- for traumatic perforations with an external cause.
Impact
Inadequate documentation of iatrogenic perforations.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure detailed operative reports and linkage to procedures.
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 Bowel Perforation, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Bowel Perforation
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Bowel Perforation. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Emergency Department Presentation
Specialty: Emergency MedicineRequired Elements
- Chief complaint
- CT findings
- Surgical confirmation
- Absence of trauma
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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