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ICD-10 Coding for Rectocele(N81.6)

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

Also known as:

Posterior Vaginal Wall ProlapseRectal Prolapse into Vagina

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Rectocele

N81.6Primary Range

Female genital prolapse

This range includes the primary ICD-10 code for rectocele, which is a type of pelvic organ prolapse.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for rectocele

Essential facts and insights about Rectocele

The ICD-10 code for rectocele is N81.6, used for posterior vaginal wall prolapse.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for rectocele

Rectocele
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of vaginal bulge and symptoms like constipation

documentation Criteria

  • Detailed operative note specifying approach and mesh use

Applicable To

  • Posterior vaginal wall prolapse

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Vaginal bulge
  • Constipation requiring splinting
  • Dyspareunia

Code-Specific Risks

  • Excludes1 note with uterine prolapse codes

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies the approach and use of mesh if applicable.

Ancillary Codes

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

Insertion of mesh or other prosthesis for repair of pelvic floor defect, each site

57267
Use when mesh is used during rectocele repair.

Differential Codes

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

Vaginal enterocele

N81.5
Enterocele involves herniation of the small intestine, whereas rectocele involves the rectum.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Rectocele to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code N81.6.

Impact

Clinical: Inaccurate representation of surgical procedure, Regulatory: Potential audit risk, Financial: Loss of reimbursement for mesh use

Mitigation Strategy

Use standardized templates, Checklist for operative notes

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment leading to reimbursement issues., Compliance: Violation of ICD-10 coding rules., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure N81.6 is not used with N81.2-N81.4 due to Excludes1 note.

Impact

Using N81.6 with uterine prolapse codes.

Mitigation Strategy

Implement EHR hard stops for Excludes1 pairs.

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

Documentation Templates for Rectocele

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

Rectocele repair with mesh

Specialty: Gynecology

Required Elements

  • Procedure description
  • Approach used
  • Mesh details

Example Documentation

Posterior colporrhaphy performed via vaginal approach with mesh reinforcement.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Repaired rectocele.
Good Documentation Example
Posterior colporrhaphy performed via vaginal approach with 2.0 cm midline plication of rectovaginal fascia. Mesh (3x4 cm polypropylene) placed to reinforce repair.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details about the approach and mesh use, which are critical for accurate coding.

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

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