ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesK51.313

K51.313

Billable

Ulcerative (chronic) rectosigmoiditis with fistula

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/06/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 K51.313 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of ulcerative (chronic) rectosigmoiditis with fistula.

Key Diagnostic Point:

K51.313 refers to ulcerative (chronic) rectosigmoiditis with fistula, a condition characterized by inflammation and ulceration of the rectum and sigmoid colon, often leading to the formation of abnormal connections (fistulas) between the bowel and other structures. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as rectal bleeding, diarrhea (often bloody), abdominal pain, and urgency to defecate. The anatomy involved includes the rectum and sigmoid colon, which are parts of the lower gastrointestinal tract. Disease progression can vary, with some patients experiencing intermittent flares of symptoms while others may have a more chronic course. Diagnostic considerations include colonoscopy, which allows for direct visualization of the mucosa and biopsy of affected areas, as well as imaging studies to assess for fistula formation. Laboratory tests may also be performed to evaluate for anemia or infection. Management typically involves medical therapy, including anti-inflammatory medications and immunosuppressants, and may require surgical intervention if complications arise.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity
  • Treatment complexity
  • Documentation requirements
  • Coding specificity

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors
  • Documentation gaps
  • Billing challenges

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Gastroenterology

Documentation Requirements

Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply

Common Clinical Scenarios

Various clinical presentations within this specialty area

Billing Considerations

Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines

Colorectal Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply

Common Clinical Scenarios

Various clinical presentations within this specialty area

Billing Considerations

Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

K51.313 has significant clinical implications as it affects patient quality of life and may lead to increased healthcare utilization due to complications such as infections or the need for surgical intervention. The prevalence of ulcerative colitis and its complications, including fistulas, highlights the importance of effective management strategies. Understanding this condition is crucial for improving population health outcomes and ensuring appropriate resource allocation in healthcare.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

K51.313 has significant clinical implications as it affects patient quality of life and may lead to increased healthcare utilization due to complications such as infections or the need for surgical intervention. The prevalence of ulcerative colitis and its complications, including fistulas, highlights the importance of effective management strategies. Understanding this condition is crucial for improving population health outcomes and ensuring appropriate resource allocation in healthcare.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include the complexity of treatment and potential surgical interventions. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation of the fistula or lack of clarity in the diagnosis. Best practices include ensuring that all clinical notes are detailed and that any imaging or surgical reports are included in the billing package to support the claim.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10 Official Guidelines for K00-K99
  • •
    Clinical Documentation Requirements

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10 Official Guidelines for K00-K99
  • •
    Clinical Documentation Requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

What specific conditions are covered by K51.313?

K51.313 specifically covers chronic ulcerative rectosigmoiditis with the presence of a fistula. This includes cases where the ulcerative process has led to the formation of a fistula, which can connect the rectum to the vagina, bladder, or other structures.

When should K51.313 be used instead of related codes?

K51.313 should be used when there is clear documentation of chronic ulcerative rectosigmoiditis accompanied by a fistula. If the condition is acute or without fistula, other codes such as K51.309 (Ulcerative colitis, unspecified, with other complications) may be more appropriate.

What documentation supports K51.313?

Documentation should include a confirmed diagnosis of chronic ulcerative rectosigmoiditis, evidence of fistula formation through imaging or surgical findings, and a detailed account of symptoms and treatment plans. Colonoscopy reports and pathology results are also essential.