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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesK56.49

K56.49

Billable

Other impaction of intestine

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

Code Description

ICD-10 K56.49 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other impaction of intestine.

Key Diagnostic Point:

K56.49 refers to 'Other impaction of intestine,' which encompasses various forms of intestinal obstruction not classified elsewhere. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as abdominal pain, distension, constipation, and vomiting. The anatomy involved typically includes segments of the small intestine or colon, where the obstruction can occur due to various factors such as fecal impaction, foreign bodies, or tumors. Disease progression can lead to complications like bowel ischemia, perforation, or sepsis if not addressed promptly. Diagnostic considerations include imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, and ultrasounds to identify the location and cause of the obstruction. Laboratory tests may also be performed to assess electrolyte imbalances and signs of infection. Understanding the underlying cause is crucial for effective treatment, which may range from conservative management to surgical intervention depending on the severity and nature of the impaction.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires imaging and clinical evaluation to determine the cause of obstruction.
  • Treatment complexity: May involve both non-invasive and invasive interventions.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed clinical notes and imaging reports are essential.
  • Coding specificity: Requires precise coding to differentiate from other types of intestinal obstruction.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misclassification of the type of obstruction.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete clinical notes regarding the cause and treatment of the impaction.
  • Billing challenges: Denials may occur if documentation does not support the severity or necessity of the intervention.

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 K56.49 lies in its potential to lead to severe complications if not managed appropriately. Population health impact includes a notable prevalence of gastrointestinal disorders that can result in increased healthcare utilization, including emergency visits and surgical interventions. Quality measures focus on timely diagnosis and treatment to prevent complications, while epidemiological considerations highlight the importance of understanding risk factors associated with intestinal impaction, such as age, dietary habits, and underlying health conditions.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The clinical significance of K56.49 lies in its potential to lead to severe complications if not managed appropriately. Population health impact includes a notable prevalence of gastrointestinal disorders that can result in increased healthcare utilization, including emergency visits and surgical interventions. Quality measures focus on timely diagnosis and treatment to prevent complications, while epidemiological considerations highlight the importance of understanding risk factors associated with intestinal impaction, such as age, dietary habits, and underlying health conditions.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include the severity of the impaction and the necessity for surgical intervention. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or lack of medical necessity. Coders should ensure that all clinical notes, imaging results, and treatment plans are thoroughly documented to support the claim. Best practices include using precise coding and maintaining clear communication with the healthcare team to ensure all aspects of the patient's care are captured accurately.

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 K56.49?

K56.49 covers various conditions leading to intestinal impaction, including fecal impaction, foreign body obstruction, and other non-specific causes that do not fall under more specific codes. It is essential to document the specific etiology when coding.

When should K56.49 be used instead of related codes?

K56.49 should be used when the impaction does not fit the definitions of other specific obstruction codes. It is crucial to differentiate based on the clinical findings and diagnostic imaging results.

What documentation supports K56.49?

Documentation should include clinical symptoms, diagnostic imaging results, treatment plans, and any surgical interventions performed. Clear notes on the patient's history and the nature of the obstruction are vital.