ICD-10 Coding for Sigmoid Diverticulitis(K57.32, K57.33)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Sigmoid Diverticulitis. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Sigmoid Diverticulitis
K57.3Primary Range
Diverticulitis of large intestine
This range includes codes specific to diverticulitis of the sigmoid colon, both with and without complications.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| K57.32 | Diverticulitis of sigmoid colon without perforation or abscess | Use when diverticulitis is confirmed without any perforation or abscess. |
|
| K57.33 | Diverticulitis of sigmoid colon with perforation and abscess | Use when diverticulitis is confirmed with both perforation and abscess. |
|
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 sigmoid diverticulitis
Essential facts and insights about Sigmoid Diverticulitis
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for sigmoid diverticulitis
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Absence of perforation or abscess on imaging
Applicable To
- Acute sigmoid diverticulitis without complications
Excludes
- Diverticulosis without diverticulitis (K57.30)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- CT scan showing colonic wall thickening and fat stranding
Code-Specific Risks
- Risk of undercoding if complications are present but not documented.
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies the absence of perforation or abscess.
K57.33 - Diverticulitis of sigmoid colon with perforation and abscess
Use when diverticulitis is confirmed with both perforation and abscess.
Applicable To
- Acute sigmoid diverticulitis with perforation and abscess
Excludes
- Diverticulosis with bleeding (K57.31)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- CT scan showing extraluminal air or fluid indicating perforation
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation specifies perforation and abscess presence.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
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 Sigmoid Diverticulitis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K57.32.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to inadequate treatment planning., Regulatory: Increases risk of coding audits., Financial: Potential loss of reimbursement for complications.
Mitigation Strategy
Thorough review of imaging and lab results., Detailed documentation of all findings.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to lower reimbursement rates., Compliance: Increases risk of audit due to lack of specificity., Data Quality: Reduces accuracy of clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Always specify the location and presence of complications.
Impact
Lack of specificity in documenting diverticulitis can lead to audits.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure all clinical findings and complications are thoroughly documented.
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 Sigmoid Diverticulitis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Sigmoid Diverticulitis
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Sigmoid Diverticulitis. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Emergency Department Admission
Specialty: Emergency MedicineRequired Elements
- Chief complaint
- History of present illness
- Physical examination findings
- Imaging results
- Assessment and plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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