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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesK60.411

K60.411

Billable

Rectal fistula, simple, initial

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

Code Description

ICD-10 K60.411 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of rectal fistula, simple, initial.

Key Diagnostic Point:

K60.411 refers to a simple rectal fistula, which is an abnormal connection between the rectum and the skin surrounding the anus. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as persistent drainage of fecal matter, discomfort, and irritation in the perianal area. The anatomy involved includes the rectum, anal canal, and surrounding soft tissues. Simple rectal fistulas typically arise from conditions like abscesses or inflammatory bowel disease, and they may progress if left untreated, leading to more complex fistulas or recurrent infections. Diagnosis is primarily clinical, supported by physical examination and possibly imaging studies such as MRI or endoscopy to assess the extent of the fistula and rule out other gastrointestinal disorders. Accurate diagnosis is crucial for appropriate management and to prevent complications.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires thorough clinical evaluation and possibly imaging.
  • Treatment complexity: May involve surgical intervention or conservative management.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed clinical notes and imaging results are necessary.
  • Coding specificity: Requires precise coding to differentiate from other types of fistulas.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misclassification with more complex fistula codes.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete clinical notes may lead to coding inaccuracies.
  • Billing challenges: Potential denials if documentation does not 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

Colorectal 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

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The clinical significance of K60.411 lies in its potential to affect patient quality of life due to discomfort and complications associated with rectal fistulas. Population health impact includes the need for effective management strategies to reduce recurrence rates and improve patient outcomes. Quality measures may focus on timely diagnosis and treatment, while healthcare utilization patterns may reflect the need for surgical interventions in more complex cases. Epidemiologically, rectal fistulas can be associated with various gastrointestinal diseases, highlighting the importance of early detection and management.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The clinical significance of K60.411 lies in its potential to affect patient quality of life due to discomfort and complications associated with rectal fistulas. Population health impact includes the need for effective management strategies to reduce recurrence rates and improve patient outcomes. Quality measures may focus on timely diagnosis and treatment, while healthcare utilization patterns may reflect the need for surgical interventions in more complex cases. Epidemiologically, rectal fistulas can be associated with various gastrointestinal diseases, highlighting the importance of early detection and management.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include ensuring that the procedure codes align with the diagnosis and that all necessary documentation is provided to justify the medical necessity. Common denials may arise from insufficient clinical evidence or misalignment between the diagnosis and procedure codes. Best practices include maintaining thorough clinical notes, ensuring accurate coding, and following up on any denied claims with appropriate documentation.

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 K60.411?

K60.411 specifically covers simple rectal fistulas, which may arise from abscesses, trauma, or inflammatory bowel disease. It does not include complex fistulas or those associated with malignancies.

When should K60.411 be used instead of related codes?

K60.411 should be used when the rectal fistula is classified as simple and is the initial encounter. If the fistula is complex or has been previously treated, other codes should be considered.

What documentation supports K60.411?

Documentation should include a detailed history of symptoms, physical examination findings, imaging results if applicable, and treatment plans. Clear notes on the nature of the fistula and any associated conditions are essential.