Fistula of stomach or duodenum

This code signifies the presence of an abnormal tract or opening originating from the stomach or duodenum. This fistula can connect to another organ, the skin, or a body cavity, allowing gastric or duodenal contents to leak. It represents a pathological communication that should not naturally exist.

Assign this code when documentation clearly indicates a fistula involving either the stomach or the duodenum. This includes gastrocutaneous, gastroduodenal, or duodenocutaneous fistulas, among others. Supporting documentation would include operative reports detailing fistula repair, imaging reports (e.g., fistulogram, CT scan) confirming the fistula's location, or physician notes describing the diagnosis and management of such a condition.

• Differentiate between internal and external fistulas if specified in the documentation, though this code does not distinguish.
• Ensure the fistula's origin is definitively stated as stomach or duodenum; avoid using for fistulas of other gastrointestinal segments.
• Code any underlying cause of the fistula (e.g., Crohn's disease, surgical complication) as an additional diagnosis.