ICD-10 Coding for Paraesophageal Hernia(K44.01, K44.11, K44.21)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Paraesophageal Hernia. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Paraesophageal Hernia
K44.0-K44.9Primary Range
Diaphragmatic hernia
This range includes codes for different types of diaphragmatic hernias, including paraesophageal hernia.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| K44.01 | Diaphragmatic hernia without obstruction or gangrene | Use when a paraesophageal hernia is confirmed without any signs of obstruction or gangrene. |
|
| K44.11 | Diaphragmatic hernia with obstruction, without gangrene | Use when a paraesophageal hernia is confirmed with obstruction but without gangrene. |
|
| K44.21 | Diaphragmatic hernia with gangrene | Use when a paraesophageal hernia is confirmed with gangrene. |
|
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 paraesophageal hernia
Essential facts and insights about Paraesophageal Hernia
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for paraesophageal hernia
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Confirmed paraesophageal hernia without obstruction
Applicable To
- Paraesophageal hernia without obstruction
Excludes
- Sliding hiatal hernia (K44.9)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Imaging confirmation (CT or barium swallow) showing paraesophageal hernia without obstruction
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification with sliding hernia
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies 'paraesophageal' to avoid misclassification.
K44.11 - Diaphragmatic hernia with obstruction, without gangrene
Use when a paraesophageal hernia is confirmed with obstruction but without gangrene.
Applicable To
- Paraesophageal hernia with obstruction
Excludes
- Diaphragmatic hernia with gangrene (K44.21)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Imaging showing obstruction such as gastric torsion or compression
Coding Notes
Document specific symptoms of obstruction such as vomiting or dysphagia.
K44.21 - Diaphragmatic hernia with gangrene
Use when a paraesophageal hernia is confirmed with gangrene.
Applicable To
- Paraesophageal hernia with gangrene
Excludes
- Diaphragmatic hernia without gangrene (K44.11)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Operative findings or surgical pathology report confirming gangrene
Coding Notes
Ensure gangrene is documented with operative or pathology reports.
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 Paraesophageal Hernia to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K44.01.
Impact
Clinical: Inaccurate surgical records, Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding guidelines, Financial: Potential for denied claims or incorrect reimbursement
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure operative reports include details on mesh usage.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims., Compliance: Misclassification affects compliance with coding standards., Data Quality: Inaccurate data entry impacts patient records.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation specifies 'paraesophageal' to avoid misclassification.
Impact
Coding paraesophageal hernia as a sliding hernia due to vague documentation.
Mitigation Strategy
Train staff to recognize and document specific hernia types.
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 Paraesophageal Hernia, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Paraesophageal Hernia
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Paraesophageal Hernia. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Laparoscopic Repair of Paraesophageal Hernia
Specialty: General SurgeryRequired Elements
- Surgical approach
- Hernia size and type
- Presence of obstruction or gangrene
- Mesh usage
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Paraesophageal Hernia? Ask your questions below.