ICD-10 Coding for Diverticulitis of the Colon(K57.30, K57.32)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Diverticulitis of the Colon. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Diverticulitis of the Colon
K57.2-K57.3Primary Range
Diverticulitis of large intestine
This range covers diverticulitis of the colon, specifying complications such as perforation, abscess, and bleeding.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| K57.30 | Diverticulitis of large intestine without perforation or abscess | Use when diverticulitis is present without any complications like perforation or abscess. |
|
| K57.32 | Diverticulitis of large intestine with perforation and abscess | Use when both perforation and abscess are documented. |
|
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 diverticulitis of colon
Essential facts and insights about Diverticulitis of the Colon
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for diverticulitis of colon
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- No perforation or abscess on imaging
Applicable To
- Uncomplicated diverticulitis
Excludes
- Diverticulosis without diverticulitis
Clinical Validation Requirements
- CT findings of inflamed diverticula without perforation or abscess
Code-Specific Risks
- Risk of undercoding if complications are present but not documented.
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies absence of complications.
K57.32 - Diverticulitis of large intestine with perforation and abscess
Use when both perforation and abscess are documented.
Applicable To
- Diverticulitis with both perforation and abscess
Excludes
- Diverticulosis without diverticulitis
Clinical Validation Requirements
- CT findings of perforation and abscess
Coding Notes
Ensure both perforation and abscess are clearly documented.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Peritoneal abscess
K65.1Differential 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 Diverticulitis of the Colon to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K57.30.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment plans., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims or reduced reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Train staff on importance of detailed documentation., Implement regular audits of coding practices.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to lower DRG assignment and reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation explicitly mentions abscess when present.
Impact
Failure to document all present complications can lead to audit findings.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure thorough documentation of all clinical findings and complications.
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 Diverticulitis of the Colon, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Diverticulitis of the Colon
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Diverticulitis of the Colon. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Post-surgical documentation for diverticulitis with complications
Specialty: General SurgeryRequired Elements
- Specimen description
- Presence of perforation
- Abscess size and location
- Microbiological findings
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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