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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesK31.81

K31.81

Non-billable

Angiodysplasia of stomach and duodenum

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

Code Description

ICD-10 K31.81 is a used to indicate a diagnosis of angiodysplasia of stomach and duodenum.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Angiodysplasia of the stomach and duodenum is characterized by abnormal blood vessels in the gastrointestinal tract, particularly affecting the stomach and the first part of the small intestine (duodenum). Clinically, patients may present with gastrointestinal bleeding, which can manifest as hematemesis (vomiting blood) or melena (black, tarry stools). The condition is often associated with chronic gastrointestinal disorders and can lead to significant morbidity due to recurrent bleeding episodes. Anatomically, angiodysplasia involves the mucosal and submucosal layers where abnormal vascular formations disrupt normal blood flow and may result in erosion and ulceration. Disease progression can vary; some patients may experience intermittent bleeding, while others may have more severe and frequent episodes requiring medical intervention. Diagnostic considerations include endoscopy, which allows for direct visualization of the lesions, and imaging studies to assess the extent of vascular malformations. Biopsy may be performed to rule out malignancy and confirm the diagnosis.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires endoscopic evaluation and may involve differential diagnosis with other gastrointestinal bleeding sources.
  • Treatment complexity: Management may include endoscopic interventions, cauterization, or surgical options depending on severity.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed clinical documentation is necessary to support the diagnosis and treatment plan.
  • Coding specificity: Requires precise coding to differentiate from other gastrointestinal conditions.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misclassification with other gastrointestinal bleeding codes.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete clinical notes regarding the extent and nature of the angiodysplasia.
  • Billing challenges: Potential denials if the medical necessity for procedures is not clearly documented.

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

Angiodysplasia of the stomach and duodenum has significant clinical implications, particularly in older populations where it is more prevalent. The condition can lead to recurrent hospitalizations due to gastrointestinal bleeding, impacting healthcare utilization patterns. Understanding this condition is crucial for improving quality measures related to gastrointestinal health and managing population health effectively.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Angiodysplasia of the stomach and duodenum has significant clinical implications, particularly in older populations where it is more prevalent. The condition can lead to recurrent hospitalizations due to gastrointestinal bleeding, impacting healthcare utilization patterns. Understanding this condition is crucial for improving quality measures related to gastrointestinal health and managing population health effectively.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include ensuring that the medical necessity for interventions is clearly documented. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or failure to provide evidence of the condition's impact on the patient's health. Best practices include maintaining thorough clinical notes, ensuring accurate coding, and pre-authorization for procedures when necessary.

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 K31.81?

K31.81 specifically covers angiodysplasia of the stomach and duodenum, which includes abnormal vascular formations leading to gastrointestinal bleeding. It is important to differentiate it from other causes of gastrointestinal bleeding such as peptic ulcers or malignancies.

When should K31.81 be used instead of related codes?

K31.81 should be used when the diagnosis of angiodysplasia is confirmed through endoscopic findings, and there is evidence of bleeding originating from these vascular lesions. It should not be used when the bleeding is due to other causes.

What documentation supports K31.81?

Documentation should include endoscopic reports detailing the presence of angiodysplastic lesions, clinical notes on the patient's bleeding episodes, and any treatment interventions performed. Comprehensive notes on the patient's history and any related gastrointestinal conditions are also essential.