Back to HomeBeta

ICD-10 Coding for Cecum Mass(C18.0, D12.0)

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

Also known as:

Cecal MassCecal TumorCecal Lesion

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Cecum Mass

C18.0Primary Range

Malignant neoplasm of cecum

Primary code for malignant tumors located in the cecum.

Benign neoplasm of cecum

Used for benign tumors in the cecum, such as lipomas.

Polyp of colon

Used for polyps found in the cecum.

Other specified diseases of intestine

Used for non-neoplastic masses in the cecum.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
C18.0Malignant neoplasm of cecumUse when a malignant tumor in the cecum is confirmed by biopsy.
  • Biopsy-confirmed adenocarcinoma
  • CT showing irregular cecal mass
D12.0Benign neoplasm of cecumUse when a benign tumor in the cecum is confirmed.
  • Endoscopic ultrasound confirms benign mass
  • Histology shows no atypia

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 cecum mass

Essential facts and insights about Cecum Mass

The ICD-10 code for a malignant cecum mass is C18.0, while benign masses are coded as D12.0.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for cecum mass

Malignant neoplasm of cecum
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Biopsy confirms adenocarcinoma.

Applicable To

  • Adenocarcinoma of cecum
  • Neuroendocrine tumor of cecum

Excludes

  • Benign neoplasm of cecum (D12.0)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Biopsy-confirmed adenocarcinoma
  • CT showing irregular cecal mass

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly coding as C18.9 when cecum is specified.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies malignancy type and location.

Ancillary Codes

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

Secondary malignant neoplasm of large intestine

C78.5
Use for metastasis to the cecum.

Differential Codes

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

Benign neoplasm of cecum

D12.0
Histology confirms benign nature without atypia.

Malignant neoplasm of cecum

C18.0
Histology confirms malignancy.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Cecum Mass to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code C18.0.

Impact

Clinical: Leads to misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure biopsy results are documented before coding., Regular audits of documentation practices.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment affecting payment., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate data for clinical research and statistics.

Mitigation Strategy

Always use C18.0 when the cecum is the documented site.

Impact

High risk of audit if unspecified codes are used when specific codes are applicable.

Mitigation Strategy

Educate coders on specific code usage and conduct regular audits.

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 Cecum Mass, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Cecum Mass

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

Confirmed Adenocarcinoma

Specialty: Gastroenterology

Required Elements

  • Biopsy results
  • CT findings
  • CEA levels

Example Documentation

CT abdomen/pelvis: 4 cm enhancing cecal mass with pericolic lymphadenopathy. Colonoscopy biopsy: invasive adenocarcinoma. Plan: Right hemicolectomy.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Cecal mass seen. Follow-up needed.
Good Documentation Example
Mass at cecal pole, 2 cm from ileocecal valve. Ulcerated, non-obstructing; biopsies taken from 4 quadrants.
Explanation
The good example provides specific location, characteristics, and biopsy actions.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Cecum 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