Unilateral inguinal hernia, with gangrene, recurrent

This code signifies a recurrent inguinal hernia affecting only one side of the body, complicated by the presence of gangrenous tissue. Gangrene indicates tissue death due to a lack of blood supply, representing a severe and urgent complication of the hernia.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a previously repaired inguinal hernia has recurred on one side, and the current examination or surgical findings confirm gangrene of the herniated contents. Supporting documentation should detail the laterality, recurrence, and the specific finding of gangrene.

• Ensure documentation specifies "recurrent" and "unilateral" to differentiate from initial or bilateral hernias.
• Confirm the presence of gangrene; do not use this code for incarcerated or strangulated hernias without explicit documentation of gangrene.
• Sequence this code as the primary diagnosis when the gangrenous recurrent inguinal hernia is the reason for the encounter.