Focal (segmental) acute ischemia of small intestine

This code signifies a localized, acute reduction in blood flow to a segment of the small intestine that is reversible. It indicates a temporary lack of oxygen and nutrients to a specific area of the small bowel, often causing sudden abdominal pain and other gastrointestinal symptoms.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of focal, acute, and reversible ischemia affecting the small intestine. This diagnosis is typically supported by imaging studies (e.g., CT angiography) showing localized vascular compromise and clinical improvement with conservative management or revascularization.

• Differentiate from K55.012 (infarction) which indicates irreversible tissue death.
• Ensure documentation specifies "focal" or "segmental" and "acute" or "reversible" to support this specific code.
• Consider sequencing with codes for underlying causes of ischemia (e.g., embolism, thrombosis) if applicable.