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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesChapter 17: Congenital malformations and chromosomal abnormalitiesQ42

Q42

Billable

Congenital absence, atresia and stenosis of large intestine

Chapter 17:Congenital malformations and chromosomal abnormalities

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

Code Description

ICD-10 Q42 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of congenital absence, atresia and stenosis of large intestine.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Congenital absence, atresia, and stenosis of the large intestine encompasses a range of malformations that affect the structure and function of the large intestine. These conditions can lead to significant gastrointestinal complications in neonates and infants. Congenital absence refers to the complete lack of a segment of the large intestine, while atresia indicates a closure or absence of a normal opening, and stenosis denotes a narrowing of the intestinal lumen. Commonly associated conditions include Hirschsprung disease, where nerve cells are absent in a segment of the colon, leading to severe constipation or intestinal obstruction. Esophageal atresia, while primarily affecting the esophagus, can co-occur with gastrointestinal malformations, complicating the clinical picture. Imperforate anus is another related condition where the anal opening is absent or blocked, necessitating surgical intervention. Gastroschisis, characterized by the protrusion of the intestines through a defect in the abdominal wall, may also be present in conjunction with these malformations. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial to managing these conditions effectively, as they can lead to life-threatening complications if left untreated.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: High

High Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in presentation and severity of congenital malformations
  • Need for detailed surgical and procedural documentation
  • Potential for multiple coexisting congenital conditions
  • Complexity of associated diagnostic tests and imaging

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the specific type of malformation
  • Failure to capture associated congenital conditions
  • Incorrect coding of surgical procedures related to the malformation
  • Lack of clarity in the clinical narrative regarding the patient's condition

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes including growth parameters, feeding difficulties, and surgical history.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Infants presenting with abdominal distension, failure to pass meconium, or signs of bowel obstruction.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of developmental milestones and nutritional status in infants with congenital malformations.

Genetics

Documentation Requirements

Genetic testing results, family history of congenital conditions, and chromosomal analysis.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Cases where congenital malformations are suspected to have a genetic basis, requiring genetic counseling.

Billing Considerations

Understanding the implications of chromosomal abnormalities on the management of congenital conditions.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use Q42 When
  • Follow the ICD
  • CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting, particularly sections related to congenital malformations and their associated conditions
  • Ensure accurate coding based on the specific type of malformation and any associated diagnoses

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use Q42 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related CPT Codes

44180CPT Code

Colectomy, partial

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases of congenital absence or atresia requiring surgical intervention.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Pediatric surgical documentation must include age-specific considerations.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital malformations, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. It has also facilitated better tracking of congenital conditions and their outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital malformations, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. It has also facilitated better tracking of congenital conditions and their outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. It has also facilitated better tracking of congenital conditions and their outcomes.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Coding Guidelines

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Coding Guidelines

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Documentation should include a detailed clinical history, physical examination findings, imaging studies, and any surgical reports. It is essential to capture the specific type of malformation and any associated conditions to ensure accurate coding.