Absent bowel sounds

This code signifies the complete absence of audible bowel sounds upon auscultation of the abdomen. It indicates a lack of peristaltic activity, which can be a critical sign of various gastrointestinal pathologies.

Use this code when documentation explicitly states "absent bowel sounds" or "no bowel sounds." This finding is often associated with conditions such as paralytic ileus, peritonitis, or bowel obstruction.

• Do not use this code if documentation indicates hypoactive or diminished bowel sounds; a more specific code would be required.
• Always query for the underlying cause if not clearly documented, as absent bowel sounds are a symptom, not a definitive diagnosis.
• Consider sequencing this code after the primary diagnosis causing the absent bowel sounds, such as an intestinal obstruction.