K68.19

Billable

Other retroperitoneal abscess

HCC Category Mapping

V28HCC 78 — Intestinal Obstruction/Perforation

0.000

V24HCC 33 — Intestinal Obstruction/Perforation

0.226

ESRDHCC 33 — Intestinal Obstruction/Perforation

0.000

What This Code Means

A collection of pus in the retroperitoneal space (the area behind the abdominal lining) that is not related to a recent surgical procedure.

Coding Tips

•Use this code for spontaneous retroperitoneal abscesses or those not classified as postprocedural
•Document the underlying cause if identifiable, such as appendicitis, diverticulitis, or other sources

Clinical Significance

Other retroperitoneal abscess represents serious deep abdominal infections that can be life-threatening due to their location and potential for systemic spread. These infections often require prolonged treatment and may indicate underlying immunocompromise or anatomical abnormalities.

Documentation Requirements

✓Imaging confirmation of retroperitoneal abscess
✓Specific anatomical location documentation
✓Exclusion of psoas muscle involvement
✓Clinical presentation and symptoms
✓Laboratory findings supporting infection
✓Treatment approach and response
✓Assessment for underlying predisposing factors
✓Drainage procedure documentation if performed

Commonly Confused Codes

K68.12 — Psoas muscle abscess has specific anatomic location K65.1 — Peritoneal abscess involves peritoneal space N15.1 — Renal abscess involves kidney tissue K68.11 — Postprocedural retroperitoneal abscess has procedural etiology L02.91 — Cutaneous abscess is superficial location

Code Hierarchy

└K68Disorders of retroperitoneum └K68.1Retroperitoneal abscess └K68.19Other retroperitoneal abscess

└K68.19Other retroperitoneal abscess