ICD-10 Coding for Ileus(K56.7, K91.3, K91.89, K56.69)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Ileus. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Ileus
K56-K91Primary Range
Diseases of the digestive system
This range includes codes for ileus and related digestive system disorders.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| K56.7 | Ileus, unspecified | Use when ileus is non-obstructive and unrelated to surgery. |
|
| K91.3 | Postoperative intestinal obstruction | Use when obstruction is directly caused by surgical intervention. |
|
| K91.89 | Other postprocedural complications and disorders of digestive system | Use when ileus is non-obstructive and directly caused by surgery. |
|
| K56.69 | Other intestinal obstruction | Use for mechanical obstruction from non-surgical causes. |
|
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 ileus
Essential facts and insights about Ileus
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for ileus
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Non-obstructive ileus confirmed by imaging
Applicable To
- Paralytic ileus
- Adynamic ileus
Excludes
- Obstructive ileus (K56.69)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- CT scan showing dilated bowel without obstruction
- Clinical symptoms of abdominal distension and nausea
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification as obstructive ileus
Coding Notes
- Ensure clear documentation of non-obstructive nature.
K91.3 - Postoperative intestinal obstruction
Use when obstruction is directly caused by surgical intervention.
Applicable To
- Adhesive obstruction due to prior surgery
Excludes
- Non-obstructive postoperative ileus (K91.89)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Operative report confirming adhesions
- Imaging showing mechanical obstruction
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation specifies surgical cause.
K91.89 - Other postprocedural complications and disorders of digestive system
Use when ileus is non-obstructive and directly caused by surgery.
Applicable To
- Postoperative paralytic ileus
Excludes
- Obstructive postoperative ileus (K91.3)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documentation of bowel manipulation during surgery
- Absence of obstruction on imaging
Coding Notes
Document surgical manipulation clearly.
K56.69 - Other intestinal obstruction
Use for mechanical obstruction from non-surgical causes.
Applicable To
- Small bowel obstruction due to adhesions
Excludes
- Postoperative obstruction (K91.3)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- CT evidence of obstruction
- Negative surgical history
Coding Notes
Ensure non-surgical cause is documented.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Hypokalemia
E87.6Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Other intestinal obstruction
K56.69Other postprocedural complications and disorders of digestive system
K91.89Postoperative intestinal obstruction
K91.3Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Ileus to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K56.7.
Impact
Clinical: Misleading clinical data., Regulatory: Potential audit issues., Financial: Incorrect reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation specifies type., Use queries to clarify ambiguous terms.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to inappropriate DRG assignment., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data affecting patient records.
Mitigation Strategy
Query provider to specify if ileus is obstructive or non-obstructive.
Impact
Risk of coding postoperative ileus incorrectly as a complication.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure clear documentation of whether ileus is expected or a complication.
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 Ileus, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Ileus
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Ileus. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Postoperative Ileus
Specialty: SurgeryRequired Elements
- Type of ileus
- Relation to surgery
- Imaging findings
- Duration post-surgery
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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