ICD-10 Coding for Sigmoid Colonic Diverticulitis(K57.32, K57.33)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Sigmoid Colonic Diverticulitis. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Sigmoid Colonic Diverticulitis
K57.3Primary Range
Diverticular disease of large intestine with perforation and abscess
This range includes codes specific to sigmoid colonic diverticulitis with and without complications.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| K57.32 | Diverticulitis of large intestine without perforation or abscess | Use when imaging confirms diverticulitis without perforation or abscess. |
|
| K57.33 | Diverticulitis of large intestine with perforation and abscess | Use when imaging or surgery confirms perforation or abscess. |
|
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 sigmoid colonic diverticulitis
Essential facts and insights about Sigmoid Colonic Diverticulitis
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for sigmoid colonic diverticulitis
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Absence of abscess or perforation on imaging
Applicable To
- Sigmoid diverticulitis without perforation or abscess
Excludes
- Diverticulitis of small intestine (K57.12)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- CT scan showing sigmoid wall thickening and pericolic fat stranding without abscess
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification if abscess or perforation is present but not documented.
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies the absence of perforation or abscess.
K57.33 - Diverticulitis of large intestine with perforation and abscess
Use when imaging or surgery confirms perforation or abscess.
Applicable To
- Sigmoid diverticulitis with perforation and abscess
Excludes
- Diverticulitis of small intestine (K57.13)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- CT scan showing extraluminal air or abscess formation
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation includes details of perforation or abscess.
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 Sigmoid Colonic Diverticulitis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K57.32.
Impact
Clinical: Inaccurate diagnosis leading to inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential loss of reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation specifies sigmoid colon involvement., Use templates to guide thorough documentation.
Impact
Reimbursement: Potential underpayment due to incorrect DRG assignment., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data affecting patient records.
Mitigation Strategy
Verify imaging and surgical reports to confirm absence of complications.
Impact
Risk of audits due to misclassification of diverticulitis severity.
Mitigation Strategy
Use detailed imaging and surgical documentation to support coding.
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 Sigmoid Colonic Diverticulitis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Sigmoid Colonic Diverticulitis
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Sigmoid Colonic Diverticulitis. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Acute Sigmoid Diverticulitis with Abscess
Specialty: GastroenterologyRequired Elements
- Patient history
- Imaging findings
- Surgical notes
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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