Gastro-esophageal laceration-hemorrhage syndrome

This code represents Mallory-Weiss syndrome, a condition characterized by a tear in the mucous membrane of the esophagus or at the gastroesophageal junction, typically caused by forceful vomiting or retching. This laceration results in bleeding, which can range from mild to severe.

Use this code for patients presenting with upper gastrointestinal bleeding confirmed to be due to a Mallory-Weiss tear. Documentation should clearly indicate the presence of a laceration at the gastroesophageal junction or distal esophagus, along with evidence of hemorrhage, often identified via endoscopy.

• Do not use this code for non-hemorrhagic esophageal lacerations; a different code would apply.
• Ensure documentation specifies the laceration is at the gastroesophageal junction or distal esophagus to differentiate from other esophageal tears.
• Consider sequencing this code as the primary diagnosis if it is the reason for the encounter, especially in cases of acute GI bleeding.