In simple words: This code describes a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows on the surface of the sigmoid colon (part of the large intestine). It's a type of endometriosis, a benign condition.

N80.521, in the ICD-10-CM coding system, specifies superficial endometriosis of the sigmoid colon.This code indicates the presence of endometrial-like tissue in the sigmoid colon, characterized by a superficial depth of invasion.It is crucial to differentiate this from deep endometriosis (N80.522), which involves deeper tissue penetration.

Example 1: A 35-year-old female patient presents with chronic pelvic pain and irregular menstrual cycles.Laparoscopic examination reveals superficial endometriosis on the sigmoid colon.N80.521 is the appropriate code., A 42-year-old female patient undergoes a bowel resection for suspected endometriosis. Pathology confirms superficial endometriosis of the sigmoid colon.N80.521 is used for billing and documentation., A 28-year-old female presents with infertility.Imaging studies suggest possible endometriosis, and laparoscopy shows superficial lesions on the sigmoid colon, among other sites. N80.521 is used in conjunction with other relevant endometriosis codes.

Comprehensive documentation is essential and should include the patient's history (including symptoms such as pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, and infertility), physical examination findings, imaging reports (if any), and the results of any diagnostic procedures (such as laparoscopy with histopathological confirmation).The depth of the endometriosis must be specified to ensure accurate coding.

** Accurate coding of N80.521 requires careful consideration of the depth of the endometriosis.If uncertain, use the unspecified depth code (N80.529).Always cross-reference with other relevant codes to paint a comprehensive clinical picture.