ICD-10 Coding for History of Constipation(K59.00, K59.01, K59.02, K59.03)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for History of Constipation. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to History of Constipation
K59.0-K59.09Primary Range
Functional intestinal disorders, including constipation
This range includes all codes related to constipation, specifying different types and causes.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| K59.00 | Constipation, unspecified | Use when constipation is documented without further specification. |
|
| K59.01 | Slow transit constipation | Use when slow transit is confirmed by diagnostic studies. |
|
| K59.02 | Outlet dysfunction constipation | Use when outlet dysfunction is confirmed by diagnostic tests. |
|
| K59.03 | Drug-induced constipation | Use when constipation is directly linked to medication use. |
|
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 history of constipation
Essential facts and insights about History of Constipation
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for history of constipation
Decision Criteria
documentation Criteria
- Lack of specific type or cause in documentation
Applicable To
- General constipation without specific cause
Excludes
- Drug-induced constipation (K59.03)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documentation of constipation without specific cause or type
Code-Specific Risks
- Risk of under-coding if specific type or cause is documented elsewhere.
Coding Notes
- Ensure no specific type or cause is documented before using this code.
K59.01 - Slow transit constipation
Use when slow transit is confirmed by diagnostic studies.
Applicable To
- Constipation due to slow colonic transit
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Colonic transit study showing delayed transit
Coding Notes
Document results of colonic transit studies.
K59.02 - Outlet dysfunction constipation
Use when outlet dysfunction is confirmed by diagnostic tests.
Applicable To
- Constipation due to pelvic floor dysfunction
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Anorectal manometry or balloon expulsion test results
Coding Notes
Document results of anorectal manometry or balloon expulsion tests.
K59.03 - Drug-induced constipation
Use when constipation is directly linked to medication use.
Applicable To
- Constipation due to medication use
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documentation of medication use linked to constipation onset
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation links constipation to specific medication.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting History of Constipation to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K59.00.
Impact
Clinical: Inaccurate diagnosis and treatment planning., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims or reduced reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure all relevant test results are included in patient records.
Impact
Reimbursement: Potential underpayment due to lack of specificity., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Decreased data accuracy and quality.
Mitigation Strategy
Review documentation for specific type or cause of constipation.
Impact
High risk of audit when unspecified codes are used without justification.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document specific type or cause when available.
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 History of Constipation, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for History of Constipation
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for History of Constipation. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Chronic constipation with slow transit
Specialty: GastroenterologyRequired Elements
- Patient history
- Colonic transit study results
- Treatment plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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