GI Bleeding with Multiple Possible Sources

The word “with” in the Alphabetic Index is sequenced immediately following the main term, not in alphabetical order.

Please Note: As of October 1, 2018, the OCG FY 2019 clarify that “with” or “in” either under the main term or subterm presumes a causal relationship between the two conditions. Prior to this, the OCG only stated the main term.

GI Bleeding and Possible Sources “with” Bleeding:

The cause/etiology of GI bleeding is not always easily determined. During procedures, to work the bleeding up, there are often multiple potential sources of bleeding found but not identified as the culprit. Many of these findings have “with” or “in” in the main or subterms. When this is the case, the condition(s) would be coded as bleeding. If there are multiple findings all of these would be reported as bleeding if “with” or “in” is listed.

Causes (Common) of GI Bleeding:

• Peptic ulcers*
• Diverticulosis/diverticulitis*
• Colon or rectal polyps (not specified as inflammatory)
• Intestinal tumor/malignancy
• Trauma
• Varices
• Angiodysplasia*
• Colitis
• Ulcerative esophagitis or esophageal ulcerations*
• Gastritis*
• Duodentitis*

The “*” beside the diagnoses/causes above indicate that the causal relationship is made when the conditions are found, and the patient also has a diagnosis of GI bleeding.

The publication of this Q&A in the 3Q 2018 AHA Coding Clinic should help coders in determining when to code “with” conditions.

Outpatient Coding Tip

A combination code indicating a presumed linkage using the terms “with” or “in” is not appropriate for uncertain diagnoses in the outpatient setting. Instead, the Uncertain Diagnoses guideline applies for outpatient coding. The diagnosis should be coded to the highest degree of certainty for the visit.

Authored by Kim Boy, RHIT, CDIP, CCS, CCS-P

References
OCG23 Page 11
AHA Coding Clinic for ICD-10-CM/PCS, First Quarter 2021 Pages: 11-12
AHA Coding Clinic for ICD-9-CM, Third Quarter 2005 Page 17 to 18
AHA Coding Clinic for ICD-10-CM and ICD-10-PCS, Third Quarter 2018 Pages: 22-23

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The information contained in this coding advice is valid at the time of posting. Viewers are encouraged to research subsequent official guidance in the areas associated with the topic as they can change rapidly.