Diaphragmatic hernia without obstruction or gangrene

This code signifies a diaphragmatic hernia that is uncomplicated, meaning there is no evidence of bowel obstruction or tissue necrosis. It represents a protrusion of abdominal contents into the thoracic cavity through a defect in the diaphragm, without acute complications.

Use this code when documentation clearly states a diaphragmatic hernia is present and explicitly denies or does not mention obstruction or gangrene. This is appropriate for incidental findings or for patients presenting with symptoms directly attributable to the hernia but without acute compromise.

• Always review operative reports or imaging studies for explicit mention of obstruction or gangrene.
• Distinguish from hiatal hernias (K44.0-K44.9) which are a specific type of diaphragmatic hernia involving the esophageal hiatus.
• If obstruction or gangrene is present, a more specific code from the K44 category must be used.