Foreign body in small intestine, sequela

This code signifies a long-term or residual effect resulting from a foreign body having been present in the small intestine. It is used when the acute foreign body event has resolved, but the patient continues to experience symptoms or complications directly attributable to that past event.

Apply this code when documenting conditions such as strictures, adhesions, malabsorption, or chronic pain that developed as a direct consequence of a previously ingested or migrated foreign object in the small intestine. This code is appropriate for follow-up encounters addressing these persistent issues, not for the initial acute foreign body removal.

• Always sequence this sequela code after the code for the specific manifestation (e.g., K56.0 for paralytic ileus).
• Ensure documentation clearly links the current condition to a past foreign body in the small intestine.
• Do not use this code for the initial encounter when the foreign body is still present or being acutely treated.