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ICD-10 Coding for Rectal Abscess(K61.1)

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

Also known as:

Perirectal AbscessSupralevator Abscess

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Rectal Abscess

K61-K61.9Primary Range

Abscess of anal and rectal regions

This range includes all codes related to abscesses in the anal and rectal regions, including rectal abscess.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for rectal abscess

Essential facts and insights about Rectal Abscess

The ICD-10 code for rectal abscess is K61.1, used for abscesses confined to the rectal wall.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for rectal abscess

Rectal abscess
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Abscess confirmed in rectal wall via imaging.

documentation Criteria

  • Provider notes specify 'rectal abscess' with supporting imaging.

Applicable To

  • Abscess of rectal wall
  • Supralevator abscess

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Pain/swelling localized to rectal wall
  • Fluctuance on rectal exam
  • CT confirmation

Code-Specific Risks

  • Confusing with perianal or ischiorectal abscess codes.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure precise documentation of abscess location and any associated conditions like fistulas.

Ancillary Codes

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

Escherichia coli [E. coli] as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere

B96.2
Use when cultures identify E. coli as the causative organism.

Differential Codes

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

Anal abscess

K61.0
Involves the anal region, not the rectal wall.

Ischiorectal abscess

K61.3
Deeper abscess extending into ischiorectal fossa.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Rectal Abscess to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K61.1.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment decisions., Regulatory: Increases risk of audit and compliance issues., Financial: Potential for incorrect billing and reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Train providers on specific documentation requirements., Use templates to guide detailed documentation.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to improper DRG assignment., Compliance: May result in coding audits and compliance issues., Data Quality: Affects accuracy of clinical data and patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Verify location through imaging and provider documentation.

Impact

Failure to document precise abscess location can lead to incorrect coding.

Mitigation Strategy

Use imaging and detailed clinical notes to confirm and document abscess location.

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

Documentation Templates for Rectal Abscess

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

Emergency Department Presentation

Specialty: Emergency Medicine

Required Elements

  • Location of abscess
  • Size and characteristics
  • Imaging results
  • Culture results

Example Documentation

Patient presents with severe rectal pain and swelling. CT scan reveals a 3cm abscess in the rectal wall. Incision and drainage performed, cultures positive for Staphylococcus aureus.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Drained perirectal abscess.
Good Documentation Example
Incision and drainage of 4 cm fluctuant rectal wall abscess confirmed by pelvic CT; no fistula identified.
Explanation
The good example provides specific location, size, and imaging confirmation, ensuring accurate coding.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Rectal Abscess? Ask your questions below.

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