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ICD-10 Coding for Rectal Bleeding(K62.5)

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

Also known as:

HematocheziaBleeding per rectumAnorectal Hemorrhageper rectal bleedingrectorrhagia

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Rectal Bleeding

K62-K64Primary Range

Diseases of anus and rectum

This range includes codes for various conditions affecting the rectum and anus, including rectal bleeding.

Other diseases of intestines

Includes conditions like angiodysplasia and diverticulosis, which can cause rectal bleeding.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for rectal bleeding

Essential facts and insights about Rectal Bleeding

The ICD-10 code for rectal bleeding is K62.5, used when no specific underlying cause is identified.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for rectal bleeding

Hemorrhage of anus and rectum
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Bleeding documented as rectal without specific cause

coding Criteria

  • No other specific bleeding codes apply

Applicable To

  • Rectal bleeding
  • Bleeding per rectum

Excludes

  • Hemorrhoids with bleeding (I84.-)
  • Diverticular disease with bleeding (K57.-)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Documentation of bleeding source as rectal or anal
  • Exclusion of other causes like hemorrhoids

Code-Specific Risks

  • Risk of incorrect coding if underlying cause is not excluded

Coding Notes

  • Ensure exclusion of other causes like hemorrhoids or diverticulosis before using K62.5.

Ancillary Codes

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

Fecal occult blood

R19.5
Use when occult blood is found without active bleeding.

Iron deficiency anemia secondary to blood loss

D50.0
Use when anemia is documented as a result of rectal bleeding.

Differential Codes

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

Angiodysplasia of colon with hemorrhage

K55.21
Use when angiodysplasia is confirmed as the cause of bleeding.

Diverticulosis of large intestine with hemorrhage

K57.31
Use when diverticulosis is confirmed as the cause of bleeding.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Rectal Bleeding to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K62.5.

Impact

Clinical: Leads to inappropriate treatment plans., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Always specify the site of bleeding in documentation.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to claim denials., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Use K55.21 alone when angiodysplasia is confirmed.

Impact

Using K62.5 as principal when a more specific code is available.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure thorough review of diagnostic findings before coding.

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

Documentation Templates for Rectal Bleeding

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

Rectal Bleeding with Unknown Cause

Specialty: Gastroenterology

Required Elements

  • Patient history
  • Bleeding characteristics
  • Diagnostic tests performed
  • Exclusion of other causes

Example Documentation

Patient presents with bright red blood per rectum. Colonoscopy performed, no diverticulosis or hemorrhoids found.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Rectal bleeding noted.
Good Documentation Example
Rectal bleeding noted, colonoscopy performed, no diverticulosis or hemorrhoids found.
Explanation
The good example provides diagnostic context and excludes other causes.

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

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