Ulcerative (chronic) rectosigmoiditis with unspecified complications
ICD-10 K51.319 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of ulcerative (chronic) rectosigmoiditis with unspecified complications.
K51.319 refers to ulcerative (chronic) rectosigmoiditis, a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that specifically affects the rectum and sigmoid colon. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea (often bloody), urgency, and tenesmus. The rectosigmoid area, which includes the last part of the colon and the rectum, becomes inflamed, leading to ulceration and potential complications. Disease progression can vary, with some patients experiencing intermittent flare-ups and periods of remission. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough patient history, physical examination, and confirmatory tests such as colonoscopy with biopsy to assess the extent of inflammation and rule out other conditions. The chronic nature of this condition necessitates ongoing management and monitoring to prevent complications such as severe bleeding, perforation, or colorectal cancer.
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
K51.319 covers chronic ulcerative rectosigmoiditis characterized by inflammation and ulceration of the rectum and sigmoid colon without specified complications. It is important to differentiate it from other forms of ulcerative colitis and IBD.
K51.319 should be used when the condition specifically involves the rectosigmoid area and is chronic in nature. It is important to use this code when there are no specified complications, as opposed to codes that indicate more severe manifestations.
Documentation should include a detailed clinical history, results from colonoscopy and biopsy, symptom descriptions, and treatment plans. Clear notes on the chronicity and extent of the disease are crucial for supporting the use of K51.319.
