Focal (segmental) acute infarction of large intestine

This code signifies an acute, localized area of tissue death within the large intestine due to a sudden lack of blood supply. This infarction affects only a segment of the colon, rather than the entire organ, and is a recent event. It indicates an ischemic injury to the large bowel.

Assign this code when documentation clearly indicates an acute, focal, or segmental infarction of the large intestine. Supporting documentation would include findings from colonoscopy, CT scan, or surgical pathology confirming localized ischemic necrosis of the colon. This code is appropriate for patients presenting with sudden onset abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea, or other signs of acute colonic ischemia that is confined to a specific segment.

• Differentiate from chronic or diffuse large intestinal ischemia; this code specifies acute and focal.
• Ensure documentation specifies "large intestine" to avoid confusion with small intestinal infarction.
• Look for terms like "segmental ischemia," "ischemic colitis," or "infarction of the colon" with an acute onset.