Back to HomeBeta

ICD-10 Coding for Viscus Perforation(K26.1, K57.20, K91.71)

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

Also known as:

Perforated ViscusGastrointestinal Perforation

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Viscus Perforation

K26-K28Primary Range

Ulcer of stomach and duodenum

Includes codes for perforated ulcers, a common cause of viscus perforation.

Diverticular disease of intestine

Covers diverticulitis with perforation, another frequent etiology.

Intraoperative and postprocedural complications and disorders

Includes codes for iatrogenic perforations during procedures.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
K26.1Acute duodenal ulcer with perforationUse when a duodenal ulcer is confirmed with perforation.
  • Endoscopy or CT confirming duodenal ulcer with free air
K57.20Diverticulitis of large intestine with perforation and abscessUse when diverticulitis is confirmed with perforation.
  • CT showing diverticulitis with perforation
K91.71Accidental puncture and laceration during a procedureUse for iatrogenic perforations during procedures.
  • Operative report detailing accidental injury

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 viscus perforation

Essential facts and insights about Viscus Perforation

The ICD-10 code for viscus perforation varies by cause, such as K26.1 for duodenal ulcer perforation.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for viscus perforation

Acute duodenal ulcer with perforation
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Confirmed duodenal ulcer with perforation on imaging

Applicable To

  • Perforated duodenal ulcer

Excludes

  • Chronic duodenal ulcer with perforation

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Endoscopy or CT confirming duodenal ulcer with free air

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misidentifying the ulcer location

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies ulcer location and perforation.

Ancillary Codes

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

Peritoneal abscess

K65.1
Use when imaging confirms abscess formation.

Acute abdomen

R10.0
Use to describe acute abdominal symptoms.

Postoperative intestinal obstruction

K56.690
Use if obstruction occurs post-procedure.

Differential Codes

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

Acute gastric ulcer with perforation

K27.1
Differentiate based on ulcer location (gastric vs. duodenal).

Diverticulitis of large intestine with perforation without abscess

K57.32
Presence of abscess differentiates these codes.

Accidental puncture and laceration during other procedure

K91.72
Differentiate based on procedure type.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Viscus Perforation to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K26.1.

Impact

Clinical: Inadequate treatment planning, Regulatory: Potential audit issues, Financial: Reduced reimbursement

Mitigation Strategy

Thorough documentation of surgical findings, Include impact on patient care

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment, Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines, Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data

Mitigation Strategy

Query provider for specific cause of perforation.

Impact

High risk of misclassification as intentional.

Mitigation Strategy

Detailed operative reports and clear documentation of intent.

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

Documentation Templates for Viscus Perforation

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

Emergency Department Presentation

Specialty: Emergency Medicine

Required Elements

  • Onset and severity of symptoms
  • Physical exam findings
  • Imaging results
  • Initial treatment plan

Example Documentation

Patient presents with acute abdominal pain, CT shows free air, plan for surgical consult.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Abdominal pain, possible perforation.
Good Documentation Example
Acute abdominal pain, CT confirms free air, surgical consult initiated.
Explanation
The good example provides specific imaging findings and a clear plan.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Viscus Perforation? Ask your questions below.

Ask about any ICD-10 CM code, or paste a medical note

We build tools for
clinician happiness.

Learn More at Freed.ai
Back to HomeBeta

Built by Freed

Try Freed for free for 7 days.

Learn more