Bilateral femoral hernia, with gangrene
ICD-10 K41.1 is a used to indicate a diagnosis of bilateral femoral hernia, with gangrene.
A bilateral femoral hernia with gangrene is a serious condition characterized by the protrusion of abdominal contents through the femoral canal, which is located below the inguinal ligament. This type of hernia occurs when tissue, often part of the intestine, becomes trapped in the femoral canal, leading to compromised blood supply and subsequent gangrene. Clinically, patients may present with severe abdominal pain, swelling in the groin area, nausea, vomiting, and signs of systemic infection such as fever. The anatomy involved includes the femoral canal, which is bordered by the inguinal ligament, the pubic bone, and the femoral vein. Disease progression can lead to ischemia and necrosis of the trapped tissue, necessitating urgent surgical intervention. Diagnostic considerations include physical examination findings, imaging studies such as ultrasound or CT scans, and laboratory tests to assess for signs of infection or metabolic derangement. Early recognition and management are critical to prevent complications associated with gangrene, including sepsis and potential loss of bowel function.
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
K41.1 specifically covers bilateral femoral hernias that have become complicated by gangrene. This includes cases where the hernia is incarcerated or strangulated, leading to tissue necrosis.
K41.1 should be used when there is clear documentation of a bilateral femoral hernia with gangrene. If the hernia is unilateral or without gangrene, other codes such as K41.0 should be considered.
Documentation must include clinical findings of a bilateral femoral hernia, evidence of gangrene (such as necrotic tissue noted during surgery or imaging), and any relevant laboratory results indicating infection or metabolic issues.
