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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesK56.6

K56.6

Non-billable

Other and unspecified intestinal obstruction

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

Code Description

ICD-10 K56.6 is a used to indicate a diagnosis of other and unspecified intestinal obstruction.

Key Diagnostic Point:

K56.6 refers to 'Other and unspecified intestinal obstruction,' which encompasses a variety of conditions leading to blockage in the intestines that do not fall under more specific categories. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as abdominal pain, distension, vomiting, constipation, and inability to pass gas. The obstruction can occur in either the small or large intestine and may result from various etiologies, including adhesions, hernias, tumors, or inflammatory bowel disease. The anatomy involved typically includes the small intestine (duodenum, jejunum, ileum) and the large intestine (cecum, colon, rectum). Disease progression can lead to complications such as bowel ischemia, perforation, or sepsis if not addressed promptly. Diagnostic considerations include imaging studies like X-rays, CT scans, and ultrasound to identify the location and cause of the obstruction. Laboratory tests may also be performed to assess electrolyte imbalances and signs of infection.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Varies based on the underlying cause of obstruction.
  • Treatment complexity: May require surgical intervention or conservative management.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed clinical notes and imaging results are essential.
  • Coding specificity: Requires differentiation from other obstruction codes.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misclassification of the type of obstruction.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete clinical notes regarding the cause and treatment.
  • Billing challenges: Denials due to lack of specificity or supporting documentation.

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

General 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

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The clinical significance of K56.6 lies in its association with potentially serious complications, including bowel necrosis and sepsis, which can lead to increased healthcare utilization and costs. Understanding the epidemiology of intestinal obstruction is crucial, as it affects diverse populations and can arise from various underlying conditions. Quality measures related to timely diagnosis and management of intestinal obstructions are essential for improving patient outcomes and reducing hospital readmission rates.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The clinical significance of K56.6 lies in its association with potentially serious complications, including bowel necrosis and sepsis, which can lead to increased healthcare utilization and costs. Understanding the epidemiology of intestinal obstruction is crucial, as it affects diverse populations and can arise from various underlying conditions. Quality measures related to timely diagnosis and management of intestinal obstructions are essential for improving patient outcomes and reducing hospital readmission rates.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement outcomes.

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 K56.6?

K56.6 covers various conditions leading to intestinal obstruction that are not classified elsewhere, including but not limited to, non-specific mechanical obstructions, functional obstructions, and obstructions due to external factors like adhesions or hernias.

When should K56.6 be used instead of related codes?

K56.6 should be used when the specific cause of the intestinal obstruction is unknown or does not fit into the more defined categories of obstruction codes. It is essential to document the clinical findings that support this coding choice.

What documentation supports K56.6?

Documentation should include a thorough clinical assessment, imaging results indicating the presence of obstruction, and any relevant surgical or treatment notes that describe the patient's condition and management.