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ICD-10 Coding for Esophageal Perforation(K22.3, S27.8)

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

Also known as:

Boerhaave SyndromeEsophageal Rupture

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Esophageal Perforation

K22.3Primary Range

Perforation of esophagus

Primary code for non-traumatic esophageal perforations, including spontaneous and iatrogenic causes.

Other specified injuries of thorax

Used for traumatic esophageal perforations, such as those caused by foreign bodies or blunt trauma.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
K22.3Perforation of esophagusUse for non-traumatic esophageal perforations confirmed by imaging or clinical presentation.
  • Mackler triad: vomiting, chest pain, subcutaneous emphysema
  • Contrast extravasation on imaging
S27.8Other specified injuries of thoraxUse for esophageal perforations resulting from trauma or foreign body ingestion.
  • History of trauma or instrumentation
  • Pneumomediastinum on CT

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 esophageal perforation

Essential facts and insights about Esophageal Perforation

The ICD-10 code for non-traumatic esophageal perforation is K22.3, while traumatic perforations are coded as S27.8.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for esophageal perforation

Perforation of esophagus
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of Mackler triad and imaging confirmation

coding Criteria

  • Non-traumatic etiology

Applicable To

  • Spontaneous esophageal perforation
  • Iatrogenic esophageal perforation

Excludes

  • Traumatic esophageal perforation (S27.8)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Mackler triad: vomiting, chest pain, subcutaneous emphysema
  • Contrast extravasation on imaging

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification of traumatic perforations
  • Omission of associated complications

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies the cause and confirms the diagnosis with imaging.

Ancillary Codes

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

Mediastinitis

J98.5
Use when mediastinitis is a complication of esophageal perforation.

Intentional self-harm by other specified means

X78.8XXA
Use when the perforation is due to self-inflicted injury.

Differential Codes

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

Other specified injuries of thorax

S27.8
Use for traumatic causes of esophageal perforation.

Perforation of esophagus

K22.3
Use for non-traumatic esophageal perforations.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Esophageal Perforation to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K22.3.

Impact

Clinical: Inaccurate treatment plans, Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards, Financial: Potential for denied claims

Mitigation Strategy

Thorough review of patient history, Detailed operative notes

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment leading to potential overpayment., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data affecting patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Use S27.8 for traumatic cases.

Impact

Inadequate documentation of trauma leading to incorrect coding.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure detailed documentation of the traumatic event.

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 Esophageal Perforation, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Esophageal Perforation

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

Post-EGD esophageal perforation

Specialty: Gastroenterology

Required Elements

  • Procedure details
  • Imaging findings
  • Complications

Example Documentation

Patient presented with chest pain post-EGD. CT confirmed pneumomediastinum. Primary repair performed.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Repaired esophageal tear.
Good Documentation Example
Primary closure of 3cm mid-thoracic perforation using interrupted 3-0 Vicryl® sutures with pleural flap reinforcement.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details on the repair method and anatomical location.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Esophageal Perforation? Ask your questions below.

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