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ICD-10 Coding for Rectovaginal Fistula(N82.3)

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

Also known as:

RVFRectovaginal Connection

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Rectovaginal Fistula

N80-N98Primary Range

Diseases of the female genital organs

This range includes conditions affecting the female reproductive system, including rectovaginal fistulas.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for rectovaginal fistula

Essential facts and insights about Rectovaginal Fistula

The ICD-10 code for rectovaginal fistula is N82.3, used for fistulas between the rectum and vagina.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for rectovaginal fistula

Rectovaginal fistula
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of a tract between the rectum and vagina confirmed by imaging

documentation Criteria

  • Detailed description of fistula location and etiology

Applicable To

  • Fistula between rectum and vagina

Excludes

  • Vesicointestinal fistula (N32.1)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Fistula tract confirmed via methylene blue test or MRI
  • Absence of anal sphincter involvement

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification with other types of fistulas
  • Failure to document the specific location and etiology

Coding Notes

  • Ensure to document the specific location and etiology of the fistula for accurate coding.

Ancillary Codes

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

E. coli infection

B96.20
Use when an infection is confirmed via culture in conjunction with the fistula.

Differential Codes

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

Fistula of anal and rectal regions

K60.4
Use K60.4 for fistulas involving the anal canal, not the rectovaginal area.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Rectovaginal Fistula to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code N82.3.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment decisions., Regulatory: Increases risk of audit failure., Financial: Potential for denied claims due to lack of specificity.

Mitigation Strategy

Train clinicians on the importance of detailed documentation., Use standardized templates for documenting fistula cases.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Misclassification can result in compliance issues., Data Quality: Affects the accuracy of clinical data records.

Mitigation Strategy

Use N82.3 for rectovaginal fistulas to ensure correct classification.

Impact

Using incorrect codes for rectovaginal fistulas can lead to audits.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure thorough training on code differentiation and documentation requirements.

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

Documentation Templates for Rectovaginal Fistula

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

OB/GYN H&P

Specialty: Obstetrics and Gynecology

Required Elements

  • Location of fistula
  • Etiology
  • Symptoms
  • Imaging results

Example Documentation

Fistula opening at 3 o’clock position, 2 cm proximal to hymenal ring. Related to prolonged labor with vacuum-assisted delivery (2023). Daily fecal leakage with coital incontinence. Endoanal ultrasound shows tract through posterior vaginal wall; no sphincter defect.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
RVF repaired.
Good Documentation Example
Transperineal repair of 1.5 cm mid-vaginal RVF secondary to Crohn’s disease; levator plication performed; no sphincter involvement noted on intraoperative manometry.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details about the repair approach, location, and absence of sphincter involvement.

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

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