Bilateral femoral hernia, with gangrene, recurrent

This code signifies a recurrent femoral hernia affecting both sides of the body, complicated by tissue death (gangrene). A femoral hernia occurs when a portion of the intestine or other abdominal contents protrudes through a weakened area in the femoral canal. The presence of gangrene indicates a severe, life-threatening complication due to compromised blood supply to the herniated tissue.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states a patient presents with a recurrent, bilateral femoral hernia and evidence of gangrenous changes in the herniated contents. This typically involves surgical intervention for repair and debridement of necrotic tissue. Supporting documentation would include operative reports, pathology reports confirming gangrene, and physician notes detailing the recurrence and bilateral nature.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "recurrent" and "bilateral" in addition to the gangrene.
• Do not use this code for incarcerated or obstructed femoral hernias without documented gangrene.
• Sequence this code as the primary diagnosis when the gangrenous hernia is the reason for the encounter.