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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesQ41.9

Q41.9

Billable

Congenital absence, atresia and stenosis of small intestine, part unspecified

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/11/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 Q41.9 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of congenital absence, atresia and stenosis of small intestine, part unspecified.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Congenital absence, atresia, and stenosis of the small intestine represent a spectrum of congenital malformations that can significantly impact the digestive system's functionality. These conditions may arise during fetal development, leading to incomplete formation or obstruction of the small intestine. Esophageal atresia, for instance, is characterized by the discontinuity of the esophagus, often associated with tracheoesophageal fistula. Hirschsprung disease involves the absence of ganglion cells in the distal colon, leading to severe constipation or intestinal obstruction. Imperforate anus is a malformation where the anal opening is absent or blocked, requiring surgical intervention. Gastroschisis is a condition where the intestines protrude through a defect in the abdominal wall, necessitating immediate surgical repair. These congenital malformations can lead to significant morbidity and require multidisciplinary management, including surgical correction, nutritional support, and ongoing follow-up to monitor growth and development.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in presentation and severity of conditions
  • Need for detailed surgical and clinical documentation
  • Potential for multiple congenital anomalies complicating coding
  • Differentiation from similar conditions requiring precise coding

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the specific type of malformation
  • Failure to capture associated congenital anomalies
  • Misclassification of the condition due to lack of specificity
  • Inconsistent coding practices across different healthcare settings

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Pediatric documentation should include detailed birth history, prenatal care, and any immediate postnatal interventions. Growth and developmental assessments are crucial.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Common scenarios include newborns presenting with feeding difficulties, abdominal distension, or failure to pass meconium, indicating possible congenital malformations.

Billing Considerations

Coders must ensure that all congenital conditions are documented, including any surgical interventions and follow-up care.

Genetics

Documentation Requirements

Genetic documentation should include family history, genetic testing results, and any syndromic associations with congenital malformations.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Scenarios may involve genetic counseling for families with a history of congenital anomalies or chromosomal abnormalities.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of syndromic associations is essential, as many congenital malformations may be part of broader genetic syndromes.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use Q41.9 When
  • Coders should adhere to official ICD
  • CM guidelines, ensuring accurate coding based on clinical documentation
  • Specificity is crucial, and coders should utilize additional codes to capture associated conditions when applicable

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use Q41.9 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

44120CPT Code

Resection of small intestine

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases of congenital atresia requiring surgical intervention.

Documentation Requirements

Operative reports detailing the procedure and any complications.

Specialty Considerations

Pediatric surgeons must provide detailed documentation to support the coding.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding congenital conditions, improving data accuracy and facilitating better patient management.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding congenital conditions, improving data accuracy and facilitating better patient management.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding congenital conditions, improving data accuracy and facilitating better patient management.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What documentation is required for coding congenital absence of the small intestine?

Documentation should include detailed clinical notes, surgical reports, and any imaging studies that confirm the diagnosis. It is essential to capture the specific type of malformation and any associated conditions.