ICD-10 Coding for Ulcerative Colitis(K51.011, K51.919)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Ulcerative Colitis. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Ulcerative Colitis
K51.0-K51.9Primary Range
Ulcerative colitis codes
This range covers all forms and complications of ulcerative colitis.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| K51.011 | Ulcerative (chronic) pancolitis with rectal bleeding | Use when pancolitis and rectal bleeding are documented. |
|
| K51.919 | Ulcerative colitis, unspecified, without complications | Use when no specific site or complications are documented. |
|
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 ulcerative colitis with rectal bleeding
Essential facts and insights about Ulcerative Colitis
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for ulcerative colitis
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of pancolitis and rectal bleeding
Applicable To
- Ulcerative pancolitis with bleeding
Excludes
- Crohn's disease (K50.-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Colonoscopy showing pancolitis
- Documentation of rectal bleeding
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification if bleeding is not documented
Coding Notes
- Ensure bleeding is documented to avoid unspecified coding.
K51.919 - Ulcerative colitis, unspecified, without complications
Use when no specific site or complications are documented.
Applicable To
- UC without specified site or complications
Excludes
- Specific site UC (K51.0-K51.8)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- General diagnosis of UC without specific site or complications
Coding Notes
Avoid use if specific site or complication is documented.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Pyoderma gangrenosum
L88Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Crohn’s disease, unspecified
K50.90Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Ulcerative Colitis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K51.011.
Impact
Clinical: Inadequate treatment planning, Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards, Financial: Potential loss of reimbursement
Mitigation Strategy
Thorough clinical assessment, Detailed documentation of findings
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to lower reimbursement rates., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of health records.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation specifies site and complications.
Impact
High risk of audit if unspecified codes are overused.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation supports specific code use.
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 Ulcerative Colitis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Ulcerative Colitis
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Ulcerative Colitis. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Active UC with complications
Specialty: GastroenterologyRequired Elements
- Site of UC
- Presence of complications
- Current treatment
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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