Dvtrcli of sm int w/o perforation or abscess w bleeding

This code describes inflammation of diverticula (small pouches) in the small intestine, specifically when there is evidence of gastrointestinal bleeding. Importantly, this diagnosis excludes cases where the diverticulitis has led to a perforation of the bowel wall or the formation of an abscess.

Use this code when documentation confirms small intestinal diverticulitis presenting with hemorrhage, such as melena, hematochezia, or positive fecal occult blood test, without mention of perforation or abscess. This code is appropriate for patients experiencing acute or chronic diverticular inflammation in the small bowel complicated by bleeding.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly states the bleeding is associated with the diverticulitis and specifies the small intestine as the affected site.
• Do not use this code if perforation or abscess is documented; instead, select a more specific code from the K57.1- series.
• Always sequence this code as the primary diagnosis if the bleeding is the reason for the encounter, or as a secondary diagnosis if it's a co-morbidity impacting treatment.