In simple words: This code describes problems with a feeding tube placed directly into the stomach.The problem isn't an infection or bleeding, but rather a mechanical issue like a blockage, leak, or the tube being out of place.

K94.23, Gastrostomy malfunction, is an ICD-10-CM code that classifies a mechanical complication arising from a gastrostomy (surgical opening into the stomach).This encompasses various functional issues with the gastrostomy tube or the surrounding tissue, excluding infections or hemorrhages which are categorized separately. The malfunction may involve issues with the tube itself (e.g., blockage, leakage, displacement), or problems with the stoma site (e.g., stenosis, fistula formation).

Example 1: A patient with a gastrostomy tube experiences recurrent blockage leading to feeding difficulties and malnutrition. The physician diagnoses K94.23 due to the mechanical obstruction., A patient's gastrostomy tube becomes displaced, requiring repositioning or replacement by a nurse or physician.This is coded as K94.23 because of the mechanical failure of the tube's placement., A patient develops a stenosis (narrowing) at the gastrostomy stoma site, impacting the ability to deliver nutrition.This is classified as K94.23, representing a mechanical dysfunction of the stoma itself.

The documentation should include the reason for gastrostomy placement, the type of malfunction (e.g., tube blockage, displacement, stoma stenosis), attempts made to correct the malfunction, and any resulting complications or interventions (e.g., imaging studies, surgical repair).Specific details on the malfunction (e.g., complete or partial blockage, location of displacement) are important for accurate coding.

** This code should be used to report mechanical complications of a gastrostomy.Infections and hemorrhages associated with gastrostomies are coded separately using the appropriate ICD-10-CM codes.