Unilateral femoral hernia, with gangrene, not specified as recurrent
ICD-10 K41.40 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of unilateral femoral hernia, with gangrene, not specified as recurrent.
A unilateral femoral hernia occurs when tissue, such as part of the intestine, protrudes through a weak spot in the femoral canal, which is located just below the inguinal ligament. This condition is characterized by the presence of gangrene, indicating that the blood supply to the herniated tissue has been compromised, leading to tissue death. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as a painful bulge in the groin area, nausea, vomiting, and signs of bowel obstruction. 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 severe complications, including strangulation of the hernia, which necessitates immediate 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 derangements. Timely diagnosis and intervention are critical to prevent serious morbidity associated with gangrenous tissue.
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
K41.40 specifically covers unilateral femoral hernias that are complicated by gangrene. This includes cases where the hernia has become strangulated, leading to compromised blood flow and tissue necrosis.
K41.40 should be used when there is clear documentation of a unilateral femoral hernia with gangrene. If the hernia is not gangrenous or if it is bilateral, other codes such as K41.30 or K41.20 should be considered.
Documentation should include clinical findings of the hernia, imaging results confirming the diagnosis, and notes indicating the presence of gangrene. Surgical notes detailing the procedure and any complications should also be included.
