Stage 3 necrotizing enterocolitis in newborn

This code signifies a severe form of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in a newborn, characterized by full-thickness intestinal necrosis with pneumatosis intestinalis, portal venous gas, ascites, and often bowel perforation. It represents the most advanced stage of this life-threatening gastrointestinal disease affecting premature infants.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states a diagnosis of Stage 3 necrotizing enterocolitis in a neonate. This diagnosis is typically based on clinical signs (e.g., abdominal distension, bloody stools, lethargy), radiographic findings (e.g., pneumoperitoneum, portal venous gas), and laboratory results indicating severe sepsis.

• Ensure the documentation clearly specifies "Stage 3" or provides clinical details consistent with Bell's Stage III criteria (e.g., bowel perforation, severe sepsis, shock).
• Do not use for suspected NEC or earlier stages; specific codes exist for those presentations.
• Sequence this code as the principal diagnosis when it is the primary reason for admission or encounter.