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2025 ICD-10-CM code R11.14

Bilious vomiting.

Use R11.14 when the vomit contains bile, giving it a green or yellow appearance. This code should not be used for vomiting of blood (hematemesis) or vomiting associated with specific conditions like excessive vomiting in pregnancy (O21.-) or cyclical vomiting associated with migraine (G43.A-).

Medical necessity for R11.14 is established when bilious vomiting is a sign or symptom of an underlying medical condition requiring diagnosis and treatment. The documentation should clearly link the bilious vomiting to the underlying condition and justify the need for medical intervention.

Clinicians should assess the patient's medical history, perform a physical exam, and order necessary tests, such as blood tests, X-rays, or contrast imaging, to determine the cause of bilious vomiting. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may involve medication, surgery, or supportive care.

In simple words: Throwing up green or yellow vomit due to bile.

Bilious vomiting is the expulsion of vomitus containing bile, a greenish-yellow fluid produced by the liver. This condition often indicates an underlying issue in the digestive system, such as a blockage or twisting of the intestine or bowel.

Example 1: A newborn infant presents with green vomit, abdominal distension, and has not passed meconium. This raises suspicion for a bowel obstruction, such as malrotation with volvulus, requiring immediate surgical intervention., A 30-year-old female experiences severe nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, with the vomit appearing greenish-yellow. This could indicate hyperemesis gravidarum and requires management to prevent dehydration and electrolyte imbalances., A 50-year-old male with a history of gastric bypass surgery experiences frequent episodes of bilious vomiting, abdominal pain, and a bitter taste in the mouth. This suggests bile reflux, and treatment may involve medication or further surgery.

Detailed documentation of the color and characteristics of the vomit, associated symptoms (e.g., abdominal pain, nausea, fever), patient's medical history (including surgeries and current medications), physical exam findings, and results of diagnostic tests (e.g., blood tests, imaging studies) is crucial for accurate coding.

** For newborns and infants, bilious vomiting should always be considered a medical emergency. In adults, persistent or unexplained bilious vomiting warrants prompt medical evaluation.

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