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ICD-10 Coding for Zenker's Diverticulum(K22.5)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Zenker's Diverticulum. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Pharyngoesophageal DiverticulumEsophageal Pouch

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Zenker's Diverticulum

K20-K31Primary Range

Diseases of esophagus, stomach and duodenum

This range includes conditions affecting the esophagus, including Zenker's diverticulum.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for Zenker's diverticulum

Essential facts and insights about Zenker's Diverticulum

The ICD-10 code for Zenker's diverticulum is K22.5, used for acquired esophageal diverticulum.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for zenker's diverticulum

Diverticulum of esophagus, acquired
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of symptoms like dysphagia and imaging confirmation

documentation Criteria

  • Documentation must specify acquired diverticulum with size and location

Applicable To

  • Zenker's diverticulum

Excludes

  • Congenital esophageal diverticulum (Q39.6)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Barium swallow showing cervical esophageal pouch >1 cm
  • CT neck with air/fluid level in retropharyngeal space
  • Symptoms: dysphagia, regurgitation, cough

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly coding as congenital without documentation
  • Using colonic diverticular disease codes

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies acquired nature and includes imaging confirmation.

Ancillary Codes

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

Dysphagia

R13.1
Use to document swallowing difficulty associated with Zenker’s.

Pharyngeal diverticulitis

J39.2
Use if there is active inflammation or infection of the diverticulum.

Differential Codes

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

Congenital esophageal diverticulum

Q39.6
Use only if diverticulum is documented as congenital.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Zenker's Diverticulum to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K22.5.

Impact

Clinical: Misrepresentation of patient condition., Regulatory: Potential for audit issues., Financial: Claim denials due to incorrect coding.

Mitigation Strategy

Always confirm and document the nature of the diverticulum.

Impact

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

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure the code K22.5 is used for esophageal diverticulum.

Impact

Using incorrect codes for Zenker's diverticulum can lead to audits.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure thorough documentation and correct code selection.

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 Zenker's Diverticulum, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Zenker's Diverticulum

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Zenker's Diverticulum. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Zenker's Diverticulum with Dysphagia

Specialty: Gastroenterology

Required Elements

  • Patient symptoms and duration
  • Imaging findings
  • Surgical approach and technique

Example Documentation

Patient presents with dysphagia and regurgitation. Barium swallow shows 3 cm Zenker's diverticulum at C5-C6. Endoscopic repair recommended.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient has esophageal diverticulum.
Good Documentation Example
Patient has a 3 cm Zenker's diverticulum confirmed by barium swallow, causing dysphagia.
Explanation
The good example provides specific size, location, and symptom linkage.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Zenker's Diverticulum? Ask your questions below.

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