Volvulus

This code represents a volvulus, which is a twisting of a loop of intestine around itself and the mesentery that supports it. This twisting can lead to intestinal obstruction, ischemia, and necrosis if not promptly addressed.

This code is used when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of volvulus affecting any part of the intestine. Supporting documentation would include physician notes detailing the clinical presentation, imaging findings (e.g., "whirl sign" on CT), and surgical reports confirming the twisting of the bowel.

• Differentiate from intussusception, which is telescoping of the bowel, not twisting.
• Always look for documentation specifying the anatomical site of the volvulus (e.g., cecal, sigmoid) for more specific ICD-10-CM coding.
• Code any associated complications, such as intestinal obstruction or gangrene, as secondary diagnoses.