Find comprehensive information on rectal fistula, including symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. Explore details on clinical documentation, medical coding (ICD-10, CPT), surgical procedures, and post-operative care for anal fistula and anorectal fistula. Learn about fistula-in-anus, perianal abscess, and related conditions. This resource provides valuable insights for healthcare professionals, medical coders, and patients seeking information on rectal fistula management.
Also known as
Diseases of anus and rectum
Covers various anorectal conditions, including fistula.
Anal and rectal abscesses and fistulas
Specifically addresses abscesses and fistulas in the anal and rectal regions.
Diseases of the skin and subcutaneous tissue
May be relevant if the fistula involves skin complications.
Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.
Is the rectal fistula traumatic?
Yes
Code as S34.2XXA, Traumatic rectal fistula. 7th character for initial encounter.
No
Is the fistula anorectal?
When to use each related code
Description |
---|
Rectal fistula |
Anal fissure |
Anorectal abscess |
Coding rectal fistula without specifying the internal opening site (e.g., anorectal, rectovesical) leads to inaccurate coding and potential claim denials. Documentation must clarify location.
Failure to document the cause (e.g., Crohns, abscess) and complexity (e.g., simple, complex, recurrent) of the fistula can lead to undercoding and lost revenue. CDI should query for specificity.
Concurrently present abscesses should be coded separately. Coding a fistula with an abscess as a single code when separate codes are applicable leads to inaccurate reporting and impacts reimbursement.
Patient presents with complaints consistent with rectal fistula, including anal pain, perirectal abscess, purulent drainage, and bleeding. On physical examination, a palpable fistula tract is noted in the perianal region. Digital rectal examination reveals tenderness and induration. The patient reports a history of recurrent anorectal abscesses. Differential diagnoses considered include anal fissure, pilonidal cyst, Crohn's disease, and hidradenitis suppurativa. Assessment includes evaluation for anorectal fistula, fistula-in-anus, complex fistula, and rectovaginal fistula if applicable. Symptoms such as perianal discharge, skin irritation, and fecal incontinence were also documented. Diagnostic imaging, including MRI or endoanal ultrasound, may be ordered to delineate the fistula tract and evaluate for any associated abscesses. Treatment options, including fistulotomy, seton placement, fibrin glue injection, or advancement flap procedures, were discussed with the patient. Patient education was provided regarding proper wound care, pain management, and potential complications, such as recurrence or incontinence. Follow-up appointments were scheduled for postoperative care and assessment of healing progress. ICD-10 code K60.3 (anal and rectal fistula) and relevant CPT codes for the chosen procedure will be documented for medical billing and coding purposes.