Congen absence, atresia and stenosis of sm int, part unsp

This code signifies a birth defect characterized by the complete absence, abnormal narrowing (stenosis), or complete blockage (atresia) of an unspecified part of the small intestine. These conditions prevent the normal passage of food and digestive contents, often leading to symptoms such as abdominal distension, vomiting, and failure to thrive in neonates.

Use this code when documentation confirms a congenital anomaly involving the small intestine, but the specific segment (e.g., duodenum, jejunum, ileum) is not identified. This is typically diagnosed in newborns presenting with intestinal obstruction. Supporting documentation includes physician notes detailing the diagnosis of small intestinal atresia or stenosis without further anatomical specificity.

• Avoid using this code if the specific segment of the small intestine affected is documented (e.g., duodenal atresia, jejunal stenosis); instead, use a more specific code from the Q41 series.
• Always sequence this code as a primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter.
• Ensure documentation clearly states "congenital" to differentiate from acquired strictures or obstructions.