Find information on Small Bowel Obstruction Unspecified diagnosis, including ICD-10 code K56.6. Learn about symptoms, causes, treatment, and clinical documentation best practices for small bowel obstruction. This resource provides guidance on medical coding for healthcare professionals, focusing on accurate and specific coding for unspecified small bowel obstructions. Explore details regarding partial and complete small bowel obstruction, ileus, and abdominal distension related to this diagnosis for optimal patient care and accurate medical recordkeeping.
Also known as
Small bowel obstruction, unspecified
Blockage in the small intestine, no specific cause identified.
Intussusception
Part of the intestine slides into an adjacent part, causing blockage.
Paralytic ileus
Temporary paralysis of the intestines, leading to obstruction.
Ileus, unspecified
Disruption of normal bowel movement, unspecified cause.
Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.
Is the small bowel obstruction due to a hernia?
When to use each related code
| Description |
|---|
| Small bowel obstruction, unspecified |
| Small bowel obstruction, adhesions |
| Small bowel obstruction, hernia |
Lack of documentation specifying the exact location of the obstruction within the small bowel can lead to coding errors and claim denials.
Insufficient documentation to distinguish between partial and complete obstruction may result in inaccurate coding and affect reimbursement.
Failure to document the underlying cause of the small bowel obstruction hinders accurate coding and impacts quality reporting.
Patient presents with symptoms consistent with small bowel obstruction unspecified. Presenting complaints include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal distension. The onset of symptoms began [timeframe] and is characterized as [character of symptoms e.g., cramping, intermittent, constant]. Patient reports [presence or absence] of bowel movements and flatus. Past medical history includes [relevant medical history, e.g., prior abdominal surgery, Crohn's disease, history of adhesions]. Physical examination reveals [findings, e.g., tenderness to palpation in the [location], hyperactive or hypoactive bowel sounds, signs of dehydration]. Differential diagnosis includes ileus, partial small bowel obstruction, complete small bowel obstruction, and other causes of abdominal pain. Initial laboratory studies ordered include complete blood count (CBC), comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), and lactic acid. Abdominal X-ray series including upright, supine, and chest X-ray ordered to evaluate for air-fluid levels, dilated bowel loops, and free air. CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis with intravenous contrast may be considered for further evaluation. Patient is currently being managed with bowel rest, intravenous fluids, nasogastric tube placement for decompression, and pain management. The patient's clinical status will be closely monitored for improvement or the need for surgical intervention. Diagnosis of small bowel obstruction unspecified is based on the current clinical presentation and will be further refined as additional diagnostic information becomes available. ICD-10 code K56.6 will be utilized for billing and coding purposes. This diagnosis is consistent with presenting signs and symptoms and warrants ongoing monitoring and treatment.