2025 ICD-10-CM code P77
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Perinatal conditions - Digestive system disorders of newborn XVI Certain conditions originating in the perinatal period Feed
Necrotizing enterocolitis of the newborn.
Medical necessity for NEC coding relies on clinical presentation, diagnostic findings supporting the diagnosis, and the need for medical or surgical interventions to manage the condition.Documentation should clearly establish the severity of NEC and the justification for the provided care.
Neonatologists, pediatricians, and surgeons may be involved in the diagnosis and management of NEC, depending on the severity and complications.
- XVI Certain conditions originating in the perinatal period
- P75-P78 Digestive system disorders of fetus and newborn
In simple words: Necrotizing enterocolitis is a serious intestinal problem in newborns, often affecting premature babies.It causes damage to the intestines and can lead to symptoms like a swollen belly, bleeding, and bowel blockage. In severe cases, it can be life-threatening.
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition affecting the intestines of newborns, particularly premature infants.It is characterized by necrotic (tissue death) changes in portions of the small and large intestines.Symptoms can include abdominal distention and tenderness, intestinal bleeding, and ileus (intestinal obstruction).Severe cases may lead to cardiovascular collapse and shock. The etiology is multifactorial, possibly involving perinatal intestinal ischemia and bacterial invasion.
Example 1: A premature infant (28 weeks gestation) develops abdominal distension, bloody stools, and lethargy on day 5 of life.NEC is suspected, and the infant undergoes abdominal X-rays and surgical intervention., A full-term newborn exhibits feeding intolerance, bilious vomiting, and abdominal tenderness.After thorough evaluation, the diagnosis of NEC is confirmed, and the infant is managed medically with bowel rest and antibiotics., A low-birth-weight infant receiving parenteral nutrition develops signs of sepsis and necrotizing enterocolitis.The infant undergoes surgical resection of the affected bowel segment.
Detailed prenatal history, gestational age, birth weight, feeding history, symptoms (abdominal distension, vomiting, bloody stools), laboratory results (complete blood count, blood cultures, blood gas analysis), imaging studies (abdominal X-rays, ultrasound), surgical findings (if applicable), and the course of treatment.
** The severity of NEC can range from mild to extremely severe, requiring various levels of medical and surgical interventions. Accurate documentation is critical for proper coding and reimbursement.Always cross-reference with other relevant diagnostic codes if present.
- Payment Status: Active
- Specialties:Neonatology, Pediatric Surgery, Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)