ICD-10 Coding for Mesenteric Panniculitis(M79.38)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Mesenteric Panniculitis. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Mesenteric Panniculitis
M79-M79.9Primary Range
Other and unspecified soft tissue disorders, not elsewhere classified
This range includes M79.38, which is used for coding mesenteric panniculitis as a soft tissue disorder.
Diseases of peritoneum and retroperitoneum
This range includes K65.8, which is sometimes used in specific contexts like Australian DVA SOPs.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for mesenteric panniculitis
Essential facts and insights about Mesenteric Panniculitis
Primary ICD-10-CM Code for mesenteric panniculitis
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- CT findings of mesenteric fat stranding and pseudocapsule sign
coding Criteria
- Index under panniculitis for M79.38
documentation Criteria
- Explicit mention of mesenteric panniculitis in clinical notes
Applicable To
- Mesenteric panniculitis
Excludes
- Other peritoneal infections (K65.8)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- CT-confirmed mesenteric fat inflammation
- Chronic abdominal pain >2 weeks
- Absence of peritoneal adhesions/retroperitoneal fibrosis
Code-Specific Risks
- Confusion with other peritoneal disorders
- Incorrect sequencing in multi-code scenarios
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies mesenteric panniculitis confirmed by imaging.
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 Mesenteric Panniculitis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M79.38.
Impact
Clinical: Misdiagnosis risk, Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards, Financial: Potential claim denials
Mitigation Strategy
Standardize documentation templates, Regular training on documentation requirements
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment leading to potential underpayment., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Always follow the ICD-10 Index under panniculitis to use M79.38.
Impact
Using K66.8 instead of M79.38 for mesenteric panniculitis.
Mitigation Strategy
Regular audits and coder training on ICD-10 Index usage.
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 Mesenteric Panniculitis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Mesenteric Panniculitis
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Mesenteric Panniculitis. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Gastroenterology Progress Note
Specialty: GastroenterologyRequired Elements
- Patient history
- CT findings
- Clinical symptoms
- Exclusion of other conditions
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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