ICD-10 Coding for Diverticulitis of the Sigmoid Colon(K57.32, K57.33)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Diverticulitis of the Sigmoid 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 Sigmoid Colon
K57.3-K57.33Primary Range
Diverticular disease of large intestine with perforation and abscess
This range covers diverticulitis of the sigmoid colon, specifying whether there is perforation or abscess.
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 diverticulitis is confirmed without perforation or abscess. |
|
| K57.33 | Diverticulitis of large intestine with perforation and abscess | Use when diverticulitis is confirmed with perforation or 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 diverticulitis sigmoid colon
Essential facts and insights about Diverticulitis of the Sigmoid Colon
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for diverticulitis sigmoid colon
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- CT findings of wall thickening and fat stranding without abscess
Applicable To
- Sigmoid diverticulitis without perforation or abscess
Excludes
- Diverticulosis without diverticulitis
Clinical Validation Requirements
- CT shows sigmoid wall thickening (>4 mm), pericolic fat stranding, no free air/abscess
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrectly coding as K57.33 if no abscess or perforation is present.
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies the absence of perforation or abscess.
K57.33 - Diverticulitis of large intestine with perforation and abscess
Use when diverticulitis is confirmed with perforation or abscess.
Applicable To
- Sigmoid diverticulitis with perforation and abscess
Excludes
- Diverticulosis without diverticulitis
Clinical Validation Requirements
- CT confirms extraluminal air, abscess ≥2 cm, or fistula
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation specifies the presence of perforation or abscess.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Differential 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 Sigmoid Colon to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K57.32.
Impact
Clinical: Leads to vague clinical records., Regulatory: Non-compliance with specificity requirements., Financial: Potential for reduced reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Always verify imaging results before coding., Ensure documentation supports the specific code used.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Code only diverticulitis as it inherently includes diverticulosis.
Impact
Using unspecified codes when specific codes are applicable.
Mitigation Strategy
Regular training on ICD-10 updates and specificity requirements.
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 Sigmoid Colon, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Diverticulitis of the Sigmoid Colon
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Diverticulitis of the Sigmoid Colon. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Emergency Department Presentation
Specialty: Emergency MedicineRequired Elements
- Patient demographics
- Chief complaint
- Clinical findings
- CT results
- Treatment plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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