Perinatal intestinal perforation

This code signifies a hole or tear in the intestinal wall that occurs in a fetus or newborn during the perinatal period. This can lead to leakage of intestinal contents into the abdominal cavity, causing peritonitis and other severe complications. It represents a serious gastrointestinal emergency in neonates.

Apply this code when documentation confirms a diagnosis of intestinal perforation in a liveborn infant or fetus, typically identified shortly after birth or prenatally. Supporting documentation includes imaging studies (e.g., abdominal X-rays showing free air), surgical findings, and clinical signs of acute abdomen in a neonate.

• Differentiate from acquired intestinal perforations occurring outside the perinatal period.
• Always sequence this code as a principal diagnosis if it is the primary reason for admission or treatment.
• Look for specific mention of "perinatal," "congenital," or "neonatal" onset in the medical record.