Unspecified intestinal obstruction

This code signifies a general blockage within the intestines where the specific cause or location of the obstruction is not documented. It indicates a functional or mechanical impediment to the normal passage of intestinal contents.

This code is appropriate when documentation clearly states "intestinal obstruction" but lacks further detail regarding etiology (e.g., adhesions, hernia, tumor) or specific anatomical site (e.g., small bowel, large bowel). It is used when a more specific diagnosis cannot be determined from the available clinical information.

• Avoid using this code if a more specific type or cause of obstruction is documented (e.g., paralytic ileus, intussusception).
• Always query the provider for more specific information if "unspecified intestinal obstruction" is the only documentation.
• Consider sequencing this code as a primary diagnosis if it is the reason for the encounter, or as a secondary diagnosis if it is a co-morbidity.