Learn about diverticulosis of sigmoid colon, including diagnosis, ICD-10 code K57.3, clinical documentation tips, and treatment options. Understand sigmoid diverticulosis and diverticular disease of the sigmoid colon with this guide for healthcare professionals, medical coders, and patients seeking information. Explore symptoms, causes, and management of this common condition.
Also known as
Diverticulosis of sigmoid colon
Condition characterized by pouches in the sigmoid colon wall.
Diverticular disease of intestine
Disorders related to pouches forming in the intestinal wall.
Diverticular disease of intestine, unspecified
Diverticular disease affecting the intestines without specific location.
Diseases of the digestive system
Covers various conditions affecting the digestive tract.
Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.
Is the diverticulosis ONLY in the sigmoid colon?
Yes
Code K57.32 Diverticulosis of sigmoid colon without perforation or abscess
No
Is there perforation?
When to use each related code
| Description |
|---|
| Small pouches form in the sigmoid colon wall. |
| Inflamed/infected diverticula in the sigmoid colon. |
| Colon pouches present throughout the colon. |
Coding diverticulitis (K57.3) without documented inflammation when diverticulosis (K57.2) is present leads to overcoding and potential denials.
Coding sigmoid diverticulosis without explicit documentation confirming sigmoid colon involvement may cause inaccurate coding and affect reimbursement.
Failing to code associated bleeding (K57.0) with diverticulosis if present impacts severity and potentially understates resource utilization.
Q: How to differentiate between uncomplicated diverticulosis of the sigmoid colon and diverticulitis on CT scan findings?
A: Differentiating uncomplicated sigmoid diverticulosis from diverticulitis hinges on identifying signs of inflammation on CT. In uncomplicated diverticulosis, CT scans will typically show sigmoid diverticula (outpouchings) without associated inflammation. Look for the absence of findings such as pericolonic fat stranding, bowel wall thickening, or the presence of an abscess. Conversely, in diverticulitis, these inflammatory findings are present. The presence of free air or fluid may indicate perforation, signifying a more severe complication. Consider implementing a standardized review protocol for abdominal CTs to ensure consistent assessment and documentation of these findings. Explore how our diagnostic imaging guide can assist in distinguishing subtle CT findings.
Q: What are the best practices for managing acute uncomplicated diverticulosis of the sigmoid colon in older adults with comorbidities?
A: Managing acute uncomplicated sigmoid diverticulosis in older adults with comorbidities requires a tailored approach that considers their individual health status and risk factors. While uncomplicated diverticulosis itself may not necessitate hospitalization, coexisting conditions can influence management strategies. Focus on bowel rest with a clear liquid diet initially, followed by a gradual return to a high-fiber diet as tolerated. Pain management can be achieved with over-the-counter analgesics. Antibiotics are generally not recommended in uncomplicated cases. However, careful monitoring for signs and symptoms of complications, like diverticulitis, is crucial. Consider implementing a patient education program focusing on dietary modifications and lifestyle adjustments to prevent future episodes. Learn more about our geriatric care guidelines for effective management of diverticular disease in older adults.
Patient presents with complaints consistent with sigmoid diverticulosis, including intermittent left lower quadrant abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits such as constipation and diarrhea. The patient denies fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, or rectal bleeding. Physical examination reveals mild tenderness to palpation in the left lower quadrant with no rebound tenderness or guarding. Bowel sounds are present and normoactive. A review of systems is otherwise unremarkable. Differential diagnoses considered include irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, and colon cancer. To evaluate for diverticular disease of the sigmoid colon, a CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis with contrast was ordered. The imaging revealed the presence of multiple diverticula in the sigmoid colon, confirming the diagnosis of sigmoid diverticulosis. No evidence of diverticulitis, perforation, or abscess was observed. The patient was educated on the importance of a high-fiber diet, adequate hydration, and regular exercise for diverticulosis management. A bulk-forming laxative was recommended to address constipation symptoms. The patient was advised to return for follow-up if symptoms worsen or new symptoms develop, such as severe abdominal pain, fever, or rectal bleeding, which could suggest a complication like diverticulitis. ICD-10 code K57.3 for diverticulosis of sigmoid colon was assigned. Patient education materials on diverticulosis and its management were provided.