ICD-10 Coding for Ischemic Colitis(K55.01, K55.02)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Ischemic Colitis. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Ischemic Colitis
K55.0-K55.9Primary Range
Vascular disorders of intestine
This range includes codes for various types of ischemic and vascular disorders of the intestine, including ischemic colitis.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| K55.01 | Acute ischemic colitis | Use when acute ischemia is present without necrosis. |
|
| K55.02 | Acute infarction of intestine | Use when infarction with gangrene or necrosis is confirmed. |
|
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 ischemic colitis
Essential facts and insights about Ischemic Colitis
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for ischemic colitis
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Colonoscopy shows mucosal edema without necrosis
Applicable To
- Acute reversible ischemic colitis
Excludes
- Chronic vascular disorders of intestine (K55.1)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Colonoscopy showing mucosal edema without necrosis
- CTA showing patent mesenteric vessels
Code-Specific Risks
- Confusion with chronic ischemic conditions
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies acute ischemia without necrosis.
K55.02 - Acute infarction of intestine
Use when infarction with gangrene or necrosis is confirmed.
Applicable To
- Acute infarction with gangrene or necrosis
Excludes
- Chronic vascular disorders of intestine (K55.1)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- CT showing pneumatosis intestinalis
- Surgical findings confirming gangrenous bowel
Coding Notes
Document imaging and surgical findings clearly to support infarction diagnosis.
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 Ischemic Colitis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K55.01.
Impact
Clinical: Leads to vague treatment plans., Regulatory: May trigger audits., Financial: Can affect reimbursement rates.
Mitigation Strategy
Always specify the type and acuity of ischemic colitis., Use imaging and lab results to guide coding.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to inappropriate DRG assignment., Compliance: May result in coding audits and compliance issues., Data Quality: Affects the accuracy of clinical data and outcomes.
Mitigation Strategy
Use K55.02 only when necrosis is confirmed.
Impact
Risk of audits due to improper differentiation between ischemic and infarction codes.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure thorough documentation of clinical findings and imaging results.
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 Ischemic Colitis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Ischemic Colitis
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Ischemic Colitis. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Acute Ischemic Colitis
Specialty: GastroenterologyRequired Elements
- Patient age and symptoms
- Colonoscopy findings
- CTA results
- Diagnosis and plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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