Focal (segmental) acute infarction of small intestine

This code signifies a localized area of acute tissue death in the small intestine due to a sudden lack of blood supply. This infarction is non-widespread, affecting only a segment of the small bowel, and is of recent onset. It indicates a critical ischemic event impacting the viability of a specific portion of the small intestine.

Assign this code when documentation explicitly states acute, focal, or segmental infarction of the small intestine. This typically occurs in cases of mesenteric ischemia where a limited area of the small bowel has suffered acute vascular compromise leading to necrosis. Supporting documentation includes operative reports detailing localized ischemic changes, pathology reports confirming acute infarction, or imaging studies demonstrating segmental bowel wall thickening and diminished perfusion.

• Differentiate from K55.01 (diffuse acute infarction) based on the extent of bowel involvement documented.
• Ensure "acute" is clearly stated; chronic infarction uses a different code.
• Look for specific mention of "small intestine" to avoid confusion with large intestine infarction.