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ICD-10 Coding for Colovesical Fistula(N32.1)

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

Also known as:

Vesicointestinal FistulaBladder-Intestinal Fistula

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Colovesical Fistula

N32-N39Primary Range

Other disorders of urinary system

This range includes codes for various urinary system disorders, including vesicointestinal fistula, which encompasses colovesical fistula.

Diseases of the intestine

This range includes codes for intestinal diseases that may be related to or cause fistulas.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for colovesical fistula

Essential facts and insights about Colovesical Fistula

The ICD-10 code for colovesical fistula is N32.1, categorized under vesicointestinal fistula.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for colovesical fistula

Vesicointestinal fistula
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Confirmed fistula between the colon and bladder

documentation Criteria

  • Explicit mention of 'colovesical fistula' in medical records

Applicable To

  • Colovesical fistula

Excludes

  • Vesicovaginal fistula (N82.0)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • CT scan showing air in the bladder
  • Cystoscopy confirming fistula site
  • Positive urine culture for specific organisms

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrect sequencing with infection codes
  • Omitting organism codes when infection is present

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies the fistula's anatomical location and any associated infections.

Ancillary Codes

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

Unspecified Escherichia coli as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere

B96.20
Use when E. coli is identified in cultures related to the fistula.

Differential Codes

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

Vesical fistula NEC

N32.2
Use only if the intestinal connection is not confirmed.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Colovesical Fistula to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code N32.1.

Impact

Clinical: Leads to misinterpretation of the condition., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential denial of claims.

Mitigation Strategy

Use specific anatomical terms, Include imaging and surgical findings

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect sequencing can lead to reduced reimbursement., Compliance: May result in non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Affects the accuracy of clinical data.

Mitigation Strategy

Sequence the infection code after the primary fistula code.

Impact

Using incorrect codes for fistula types can lead to audits.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure thorough documentation and code verification.

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 Colovesical Fistula, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Colovesical Fistula

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

Post-operative documentation for fistula repair

Specialty: Surgery

Required Elements

  • Fistula location
  • Procedure details
  • Post-operative findings

Example Documentation

Laparoscopic resection of sigmoid colon with en bloc removal of colovesical fistula tract.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Fistula repaired.
Good Documentation Example
3 cm colovesical fistula at sigmoid-bladder junction confirmed intraoperatively.
Explanation
The good example provides specific anatomical details and confirmation method.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Colovesical Fistula? Ask your questions below.

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