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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesN81.6

N81.6

Billable

Rectocele

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/18/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 N81.6 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of rectocele.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Rectocele is a condition characterized by the protrusion of the rectum into the posterior wall of the vagina, often resulting from weakened pelvic support structures. This condition is commonly associated with childbirth, aging, and increased intra-abdominal pressure. Women with rectocele may experience symptoms such as a sensation of fullness or pressure in the pelvic area, difficulty with bowel movements, and discomfort during sexual intercourse. The condition can also be linked to other pelvic floor disorders, including pelvic organ prolapse, which encompasses conditions like cystocele and uterine prolapse. Rectocele can coexist with endometriosis, where endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus, potentially complicating the clinical picture. Diagnosis typically involves a pelvic examination and may require imaging studies to assess the extent of the prolapse. Treatment options range from conservative management, such as pelvic floor exercises and lifestyle modifications, to surgical interventions aimed at repairing the prolapse. Accurate coding for rectocele is essential for proper reimbursement and to reflect the complexity of the patient's condition.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in symptoms and severity among patients
  • Potential co-occurrence with other pelvic disorders
  • Need for detailed documentation of clinical findings
  • Variations in treatment approaches and surgical options

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of symptoms and clinical findings
  • Failure to document coexisting conditions
  • Incorrect assignment of severity levels
  • Lack of clarity in treatment plans

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Obstetrics and Gynecology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed pelvic examination findings, patient history, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with pelvic pressure, bowel dysfunction, or sexual discomfort.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of childbirth history and other pelvic floor disorders.

Colorectal Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessment of rectal function and associated bowel symptoms.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with rectal prolapse or significant bowel dysfunction.

Billing Considerations

Assessment of surgical history and potential need for multidisciplinary management.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use N81.6 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, N81
  • 6 should be used when a rectocele is diagnosed
  • It is important to document the severity and any associated conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use N81.6 When
  • Exclusion criteria include conditions that do not involve the rectum or vagina

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

57260CPT Code

Repair of rectocele

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical intervention is performed for rectocele.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and indication.

Specialty Considerations

Obstetrics and Gynecology or Colorectal Surgery may perform this procedure.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of rectocele, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. It has also facilitated better tracking of outcomes related to pelvic floor disorders.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of rectocele, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. It has also facilitated better tracking of outcomes related to pelvic floor disorders.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. It has also facilitated better tracking of outcomes related to pelvic floor disorders.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Urological Association Guidelines

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Urological Association Guidelines

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of rectocele?

Common symptoms include pelvic pressure, difficulty with bowel movements, and discomfort during sexual intercourse.

How is rectocele diagnosed?

Diagnosis is typically made through a pelvic examination, and imaging studies may be used to assess the extent of the prolapse.

What treatment options are available for rectocele?

Treatment options range from conservative management, such as pelvic floor exercises, to surgical repair depending on the severity of the condition.