2025 ICD-10-CM code K55.0
Acute vascular disorders of the intestine, including mesenteric artery or vein embolism, infarction, or thrombosis.
Medical necessity for procedures related to K55.0 is established by the severity of symptoms, the presence of complications (e.g., infarction, peritonitis), and the need for intervention to restore blood flow or resect necrotic tissue.
The clinical responsibility for K55.0 typically falls under gastroenterologists, general surgeons, or vascular surgeons depending upon the specific cause and treatment approach.Accurate documentation and diagnosis are crucial for appropriate treatment and coding.
In simple words: This code refers to a sudden blockage or reduced blood flow in the blood vessels supplying the intestines. This can lead to serious complications like tissue damage or death in the affected part of the intestine.
Acute vascular disorders of the intestine such as acute, fulminant ischemic colitis, intestinal infarction, and small intestine ischemia.It also includes mesenteric (artery) (vein) embolism, infarction, and thrombosis.Subacute ischemic colitis is also included.
Example 1: A patient presents with sudden, severe abdominal pain, bloody stools, and signs of shock. Imaging reveals a blockage in the superior mesenteric artery, leading to a diagnosis of acute mesenteric artery embolism. This is coded as K55.0., A patient with a history of atrial fibrillation experiences abdominal pain and distension.A CT scan shows evidence of mesenteric venous thrombosis. This condition is coded as K55.0., A patient undergoing abdominal surgery experiences accidental damage to a major intestinal artery, leading to intestinal ischemia and infarction.This is also coded as K55.0.
Documentation should include the following: symptoms, diagnostic testing results (e.g., CT, angiography), location and extent of vascular compromise, and any associated conditions. Clear documentation of the acute nature of the disorder is essential.
** Excludes1: necrotizing enterocolitis of newborn (P77.-)Excludes2: angioectasia (angiodysplasia) duodenum (K31.81-)
- Payment Status: Active
- Specialties:Gastroenterology, General Surgery, Vascular Surgery
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Emergency Room - Hospital