Gastrostomy infection

This code signifies an infection occurring at the site of a gastrostomy, which is a surgically created opening into the stomach, typically for a feeding tube. The infection can manifest with local signs such as erythema, purulent drainage, pain, and swelling around the stoma. It indicates a complication directly related to the gastrostomy device or surgical site.

Use this code when documentation explicitly states an infection of the gastrostomy site. This includes infections of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) sites, surgical gastrostomies, or any other type of gastrostomy. Supporting documentation should detail signs and symptoms of infection localized to the gastrostomy.

• Always code the specific type of infection if known (e.g., cellulitis, abscess) in addition to this code, if applicable.
• Ensure documentation differentiates between simple irritation/inflammation and actual infection.
• Consider an additional code for the underlying reason for the gastrostomy, if still relevant to the current encounter.