2025 ICD-10-CM code K46
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Hernia - Hernia Diseases of the digestive system Feed
Unspecified abdominal hernia.Includes various types of hernias within the abdomen.
Medical necessity for coding K46 would be supported by symptoms, physical examination findings suggesting an abdominal hernia, and the need for diagnosis and/or treatment (e.g., surgical repair).
Diagnosis and management of abdominal hernias. This may involve physical examination, imaging studies (such as ultrasound or CT scan), and determining the need for surgical repair.The physician's responsibility may also include post-operative care if surgery is performed.
In simple words: This code is for an unspecified hernia in the abdomen (belly area).It covers different types of hernias, and is used when the doctor doesn't know the exact type.
Unspecified abdominal hernia. This ICD-10-CM code encompasses various types of acquired or congenital hernias (excluding diaphragmatic or hiatus hernias) within the abdomen, including recurrent hernias.Specific examples include enterocele, epiplocele, interstitial hernia, intestinal hernia, and intra-abdominal hernia.This code is used when the specific type of abdominal hernia is unknown or cannot be specified.
Example 1: A patient presents with abdominal pain and a palpable mass in the lower abdomen.Imaging confirms an unspecified abdominal hernia. K46 is used for billing., A patient undergoes exploratory laparotomy for bowel obstruction. Intra-operative findings reveal an unspecified abdominal hernia contributing to the obstruction. K46 is used to code the hernia., A patient's medical history reveals recurrent abdominal pain, and physical exam shows an abdominal bulge.Diagnostic imaging is inconclusive regarding the specific type of hernia. K46 is the appropriate code.
Detailed patient history, including symptoms (pain, abdominal bulge, nausea, vomiting), physical examination findings (location and size of the hernia, presence of bowel sounds), and results of any diagnostic imaging studies (ultrasound, CT scan). If surgery is performed, operative report is crucial.
** Always verify the most current coding guidelines and conventions before using this code for billing purposes.Consider using more specific codes (if known) to improve coding accuracy.Ensure documentation supports the chosen code.
- Payment Status: Active
- Specialties:General Surgery, Gastroenterology
- Place of Service:Office, Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center