2025 ICD-10-CM code K38.3
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Diseases of the digestive system - Other diseases of appendix XI Diseases of the digestive system Feed
Fistula of appendix.
Medical necessity for treatment of a fistula of the appendix is established by the presence of the fistula and associated symptoms or complications. The medical record should clearly document the clinical findings supporting the diagnosis and the need for intervention, such as surgery or other procedures.
In simple words: A fistula of the appendix is an abnormal opening between the appendix and another organ or the skin.
Fistula of appendix is an abnormal connection or passageway that forms between the appendix and another organ, such as the bowel, bladder, or skin.This can occur as a complication of appendicitis or other conditions affecting the appendix.
Example 1: A patient presents with abdominal pain and drainage near their umbilicus.Imaging reveals a fistula connecting the appendix to the skin surface., Following a ruptured appendix, a patient develops a fistula between the appendix and the bladder, leading to fecaluria (feces in the urine)., A patient with Crohn's disease develops a fistula between their appendix and the small intestine.
Documentation should include details of the fistula's location, the organs involved, any associated symptoms (e.g., pain, drainage, fever), and imaging findings confirming the diagnosis.If the fistula is a result of a complication like appendicitis or Crohn's disease, that should also be documented.
- Specialties:General surgery, gastroenterology, colorectal surgery
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center