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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesK57.32

K57.32

Billable

Diverticulitis of large intestine without perforation or abscess without bleeding

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

Code Description

ICD-10 K57.32 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of diverticulitis of large intestine without perforation or abscess without bleeding.

Key Diagnostic Point:

K57.32 refers to diverticulitis of the large intestine without perforation or abscess and without bleeding. This condition arises when diverticula, which are small pouches that can form in the walls of the colon, become inflamed or infected. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as abdominal pain, particularly in the lower left quadrant, fever, and changes in bowel habits, including constipation or diarrhea. The anatomy involved primarily includes the sigmoid colon, which is the most common site for diverticulitis. Disease progression can lead to complications if left untreated, including abscess formation or perforation, although these are not present in this specific code. Diagnostic considerations typically involve a thorough clinical history, physical examination, and imaging studies such as CT scans, which can confirm the diagnosis and rule out complications. Laboratory tests may also be performed to assess for infection or inflammation.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Moderate, as it requires imaging and clinical evaluation.
  • Treatment complexity: Moderate, often managed with dietary changes, antibiotics, or surgery in severe cases.
  • Documentation requirements: Requires detailed clinical notes and imaging results.
  • Coding specificity: Specific to diverticulitis without complications, necessitating precise documentation.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misuse of codes for diverticulitis with complications.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete clinical notes regarding symptoms and imaging results.
  • Billing challenges: Potential denials if documentation does not clearly support the diagnosis.

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

Primary Care

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

Diverticulitis is a common gastrointestinal condition that affects a significant portion of the population, particularly older adults. Its clinical significance lies in the potential for complications, which can lead to increased healthcare utilization and costs. Understanding and accurately coding K57.32 can improve patient management and outcomes, as well as contribute to population health data that informs healthcare policies and quality measures.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Diverticulitis is a common gastrointestinal condition that affects a significant portion of the population, particularly older adults. Its clinical significance lies in the potential for complications, which can lead to increased healthcare utilization and costs. Understanding and accurately coding K57.32 can improve patient management and outcomes, as well as contribute to population health data that informs healthcare policies and quality measures.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include ensuring that the medical necessity for imaging and treatment is clearly documented. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or incorrect coding of related conditions. Best practices include thorough clinical notes, clear imaging reports, and adherence to coding guidelines to minimize audit risks.

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 K57.32?

K57.32 specifically covers diverticulitis of the large intestine that is not associated with perforation, abscess, or bleeding. It is important to differentiate this from other diverticular diseases and complications.

When should K57.32 be used instead of related codes?

K57.32 should be used when the patient presents with diverticulitis that is confirmed by imaging and clinical evaluation, and there are no signs of perforation, abscess, or bleeding. It is crucial to document the absence of these complications.

What documentation supports K57.32?

Documentation should include a detailed clinical history, physical examination findings, imaging results (such as CT scans), and any laboratory tests that support the diagnosis of diverticulitis without complications.