Left sided colitis without complications

This code signifies inflammation of the left side of the colon, specifically the descending colon, sigmoid colon, and rectum, without any associated complications such as strictures, fistulas, or abscesses. It represents a form of ulcerative colitis localized to the distal colon.

Assign this code when documentation clearly indicates ulcerative colitis affecting only the left side of the colon, and there is no mention of complications. This is typically supported by colonoscopy reports detailing the extent of inflammation and physician notes confirming the absence of complications.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "left-sided" or "distal" colitis and confirms the absence of complications.
• Do not use this code if the colitis extends beyond the splenic flexure or if complications are present; instead, select a more specific code.
• Consider sequencing this code after any codes for symptoms that prompted the diagnostic workup, such as abdominal pain or bloody stools.