ICD-10 Coding for Epiploic Appendagitis(K55.0, K65.9)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Epiploic Appendagitis. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Epiploic Appendagitis
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| K55.0 | Acute vascular disorders of intestine | Use when epiploic appendagitis is due to torsion or thrombosis. |
|
| K65.9 | Unspecified peritonitis | Use when the cause of epiploic appendagitis is not specified. |
|
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 epiploic appendagitis
Essential facts and insights about Epiploic Appendagitis
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for epiploic appendagitis
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of torsion or thrombosis on imaging
Applicable To
- Epiploic appendagitis due to torsion
- Epiploic appendagitis due to venous thrombosis
Excludes
- Appendicitis (K35-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- CT findings of hyperattenuating ring sign
- Central dot sign indicating thrombosis
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification as appendicitis
- Incorrect use when cause is unspecified
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies torsion or thrombosis.
K65.9 - Unspecified peritonitis
Use when the cause of epiploic appendagitis is not specified.
Applicable To
- Epiploic appendagitis without specified cause
Excludes
- Peritonitis due to appendicitis (K35-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- General CT findings without specific etiology
Coding Notes
Ensure lack of specific etiology is documented.
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 Epiploic Appendagitis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K55.0.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment decisions., Regulatory: Increases risk of coding audits., Financial: Potential for incorrect reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Educate clinicians on documentation requirements, Use templates to ensure completeness
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment affecting payment., Compliance: Potential audit issues due to incorrect coding., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data affecting patient records.
Mitigation Strategy
Verify imaging and clinical findings to distinguish between conditions.
Impact
Lack of specific etiology documentation can lead to audit findings.
Mitigation Strategy
Implement documentation checks and clinician education.
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 Epiploic Appendagitis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Epiploic Appendagitis
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Epiploic Appendagitis. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Emergency Department Presentation
Specialty: Emergency MedicineRequired Elements
- Patient history
- Imaging findings
- Diagnosis
- Treatment plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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