Chronic or unspecified duodenal ulcer with perforation
ICD-10 K26.5 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of chronic or unspecified duodenal ulcer with perforation.
Chronic or unspecified duodenal ulcer with perforation is a serious gastrointestinal condition characterized by the formation of an ulcer in the duodenum, which is the first part of the small intestine. This condition typically arises from chronic inflammation due to factors such as Helicobacter pylori infection, prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and excessive alcohol consumption. Clinically, patients may present with severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and signs of peritonitis if perforation occurs. The anatomy involved includes the duodenum, which connects the stomach to the jejunum, and its perforation can lead to the leakage of intestinal contents into the abdominal cavity, resulting in acute abdominal emergencies. Disease progression can lead to complications such as hemorrhage, sepsis, and peritonitis, necessitating immediate medical intervention. Diagnostic considerations include endoscopy, imaging studies, and laboratory tests to confirm the presence of an ulcer and assess for perforation. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent life-threatening complications.
Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply
Various clinical presentations within this specialty area
Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines
Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply
Various clinical presentations within this specialty area
Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines
K26.5 specifically covers chronic or unspecified duodenal ulcers that have progressed to perforation. This includes cases where the ulcer has not been previously diagnosed or documented as chronic, but has resulted in a perforation requiring urgent medical attention.
K26.5 should be used when there is clear evidence of perforation in a chronic or unspecified duodenal ulcer. If the ulcer is present without perforation, K26.4 should be used instead. Documentation must clearly indicate the presence of perforation to justify the use of K26.5.
Documentation supporting K26.5 should include clinical notes detailing the patient's symptoms, diagnostic imaging results showing perforation, endoscopic findings, and any surgical reports if applicable. Comprehensive documentation is crucial to substantiate the diagnosis and treatment provided.
