Bilateral inguinal hernia, w obst, w/o gangrene, recurrent

This code signifies a hernia located in both groins that has previously occurred and returned, and is currently complicated by a blockage of the bowel or other contents, but without evidence of tissue death. It describes a situation where the herniated tissue is trapped, causing an obstruction, but is not yet gangrenous.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a bilateral inguinal hernia that has recurred after prior repair, presents with signs and symptoms of obstruction (e.g., pain, vomiting, inability to pass stool), and imaging or surgical findings confirm the absence of gangrene. This code is appropriate for patients presenting with acute obstructive symptoms of a previously repaired bilateral inguinal hernia.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "recurrent" and "bilateral" to support this specific code.
• Distinguish carefully between obstruction and gangrene; the absence of gangrene is a key differentiator for this code.
• Review operative reports and physician notes for details on the hernia's history, location, and current complications.