Ulcerative colitis, unspecified with intestinal obstruction
ICD-10 K51.912 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of ulcerative colitis, unspecified with intestinal obstruction.
K51.912 refers to ulcerative colitis, unspecified, with intestinal obstruction. Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease characterized by inflammation and ulceration of the colonic mucosa. The condition primarily affects the rectum and colon, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea (often bloody), and urgency to defecate. In cases where intestinal obstruction occurs, the inflammation may lead to strictures or narrowing of the bowel, resulting in a blockage that can cause severe abdominal distension, vomiting, and constipation. Disease progression can vary, with periods of exacerbation and remission. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough patient history, physical examination, and confirmatory tests such as colonoscopy with biopsy, imaging studies, and laboratory tests to rule out other gastrointestinal disorders. The unspecified nature of this code indicates that the specific type or extent of ulcerative colitis has not been documented, which may complicate treatment and management strategies.
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
K51.912 covers cases of ulcerative colitis that are unspecified in terms of severity or extent, accompanied by intestinal obstruction. This may include acute exacerbations leading to strictures or chronic cases where obstruction is a complication.
K51.912 should be used when the patient's ulcerative colitis is not further specified and is associated with intestinal obstruction. If the type or extent of ulcerative colitis is known, more specific codes should be selected.
Documentation should include a clear diagnosis of ulcerative colitis, details of the intestinal obstruction, clinical symptoms, results from diagnostic tests (e.g., colonoscopy), and treatment plans. Comprehensive notes are essential to justify the use of this code.
