ICD-10 Coding for Small Intestine Obstruction(K56.691, K56.690)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Small Intestine Obstruction. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Small Intestine Obstruction
K56.6-K56.7Primary Range
ICD-10 codes for intestinal obstruction
This range includes codes specific to small intestine obstruction, both partial and complete.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| K56.691 | Complete intestinal obstruction of the small intestine | Use when imaging confirms complete obstruction due to mechanical causes. |
|
| K56.690 | Partial intestinal obstruction of the small intestine | Use when imaging confirms partial obstruction. |
|
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 small intestine obstruction
Essential facts and insights about Small Intestine Obstruction
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for small intestine obstruction
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Complete obstruction confirmed by imaging
Applicable To
- Complete mechanical obstruction
Excludes
- Paralytic ileus (K56.0)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Imaging confirmation of complete obstruction
- Clinical symptoms such as no passage of stool or gas
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification if partial obstruction is not ruled out
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies 'complete' and identifies the cause.
K56.690 - Partial intestinal obstruction of the small intestine
Use when imaging confirms partial obstruction.
Applicable To
- Partial mechanical obstruction
Excludes
- Complete obstruction (K56.691)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Imaging showing partial obstruction
- Symptoms such as intermittent pain and some passage of gas
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation specifies 'partial' and identifies the cause.
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 Small Intestine Obstruction to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K56.691.
Impact
Clinical: Leads to inadequate treatment plans., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for reduced reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure detailed documentation, Use specific codes when possible
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims or incorrect DRG assignment., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data affecting patient records.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation clearly states the severity of the obstruction.
Impact
Auditors may question claims without clear severity documentation.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure all documentation specifies whether the obstruction is partial or complete.
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 Small Intestine Obstruction, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Small Intestine Obstruction
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Small Intestine Obstruction. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Emergency Department Visit for SBO
Specialty: Emergency MedicineRequired Elements
- History of present illness
- Physical examination findings
- Imaging results
- Assessment and plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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