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ICD-10 Coding for Sigmoid Volvulus(K56.2)

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

Also known as:

Colon VolvulusIntestinal Torsion

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Sigmoid Volvulus

K55-K64Primary Range

Other diseases of intestines

This range includes codes for intestinal obstructions and volvulus, specifically K56.2 for sigmoid volvulus.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for sigmoid volvulus

Essential facts and insights about Sigmoid Volvulus

The ICD-10 code for sigmoid volvulus is K56.2, used when imaging confirms sigmoid torsion with obstruction symptoms.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for sigmoid volvulus

Volvulus
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Imaging shows disproportionate sigmoid enlargement and obstruction symptoms.

Applicable To

  • Sigmoid volvulus
  • Cecal volvulus

Excludes

  • Intestinal obstruction NOS (K56.609)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Imaging confirmation of sigmoid torsion
  • Obstruction symptoms

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly coding without imaging confirmation

Coding Notes

  • Ensure imaging findings are documented to support the diagnosis.

Ancillary Codes

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

Postprocedural intestinal obstruction

K91.3
Use if volvulus occurs within 30 days of prior abdominal surgery.

Differential Codes

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

Unspecified intestinal obstruction

K56.609
Use K56.609 only if volvulus is not confirmed and obstruction cause is unspecified.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Sigmoid Volvulus to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K56.2.

Impact

Clinical: Inadequate clinical information for treatment planning., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials due to insufficient documentation.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure detailed documentation of procedure extent and findings., Use templates to guide comprehensive documentation.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Use K56.2 alone as obstruction is inherent in volvulus.

Impact

Inadequate documentation of endoscopic procedure extent.

Mitigation Strategy

Use structured templates to ensure comprehensive documentation.

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

Documentation Templates for Sigmoid Volvulus

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

Emergency Department Presentation

Specialty: Gastroenterology

Required Elements

  • Patient symptoms
  • Imaging findings
  • Procedure details

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Abd pain, likely torsion - scope done.
Good Documentation Example
65M with 48h obstipation, tympanic distension. CT confirms sigmoid volvulus: 14cm loop, beak sign at 25cm, no pneumatosis. Flexible sigmoidoscopy performed to 40cm with successful detorsion - 45346. Plan: Surgical consult for elective resection.
Explanation
The good example includes specific imaging findings, procedure details, and a clear plan.

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

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