What does ICD-10-CM code K57.92 mean?
K57.92 represents Diverticulitis of intestine, part unspecified, without perforation or abscess without bleeding. This gastrointestinal condition is classified under Chapter 11 (Diseases of the Digestive System) for documentation and billing purposes. Coders frequently reference this code as diverticulitis icd 10, icd 10 code for diverticulitis, acute diverticulitis icd 10, or diverticulitis of sigmoid colon icd 10.
Code category and hierarchy
- Chapter: 11 – Diseases of the Digestive System (K00-K95)
- Category: K57
- Code: K57.92 – Diverticulitis of intestine, part unspecified, without perforation or abscess without bleeding
Guideline notes and coding considerations
Specificity Warning
K57.92 is an unspecified code. Query the provider for greater specificity when documentation suggests a more precise code is available. Using unspecified codes when specific codes exist may trigger audits.
- Specificity: Assign K57.92 only when documentation supports this specific diagnosis.
Learn the underlying rules in the ICD-10 Coding Guidelines, Specificity Requirements.
Documentation tips (what coders should confirm)
- Verify the clinical documentation supports the use of K57.92
- Query the provider for greater specificity if clinical details suggest a more precise code
When NOT to use K57.92
Do not assign K57.92 when the clinical scenario involves: when documentation provides enough detail for a more specific code. Review excludes notes and assign the most specific code supported by documentation.
Audit risk
K57.92 is an unspecified code. Payers and auditors may flag claims with unspecified codes when the medical record contains sufficient detail for a more precise diagnosis. Query the provider for specificity before submitting.
Validate K57.92 Against ICD 10 CM Coding Guidelines
Check this code against official guidelines for conflicts and compliance issues.
Related ICD-10 codes
Frequently Asked Questions
The ICD-10-CM code for diverticulitis is K57.92, which represents diverticulitis of intestine, part unspecified, without perforation or abscess without bleeding. This code is also commonly referenced as icd 10 code for diverticulitis, acute diverticulitis icd 10, diverticulitis of sigmoid colon icd 10. Verify this code using the ICD Code Auditor to ensure guideline compliance.
Yes. K57.92 is an active ICD-10-CM diagnosis code used to classify diverticulitis of intestine, part unspecified, without perforation or abscess without bleeding for clinical documentation, reporting, and medical billing purposes.
Use the ICD Code Auditor to check K57.92 against official ICD-10-CM coding guidelines. The tool validates by fiscal year and patient gender to identify potential conflicts.
K57.92 should be used only when clinical documentation does not provide enough detail for a more specific code. Always query the provider when documentation suggests greater specificity is available, as unspecified codes may trigger audits and impact risk adjustment.
Documentation should clearly describe the clinical condition represented by K57.92 (Diverticulitis of intestine, part unspecified, without perforation or abscess without bleeding). Include relevant clinical findings, diagnostic test results, provider assessment, and the treatment plan. The diagnosis must be supported by the medical record and not based solely on lab results without clinical interpretation.
Sources
Reviewed by: Certified ICD-10 Coding & Risk Adjustment Specialist
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