Q42.9

Billable

Congenital absence, atresia and stenosis of large intestine, part unspecified

HCC Category Mapping

V28HCC 78 — Intestinal Obstruction/Perforation

0.000

What This Code Means

A birth defect where part of the large intestine is missing, closed off, or abnormally narrowed, but the specific location is not documented.

Coding Tips

•Query the provider if the specific site (rectum, colon, ileocecal valve) is known, as more specific codes (Q42.0-Q42.8) may be more appropriate
•This code indicates the location of the malformation was not specified in the medical record

Clinical Significance

This unspecified congenital large intestine malformation code indicates significant structural abnormalities requiring specialized care but lacks anatomical specificity. It represents conditions that may require surgical intervention and lifelong management, making precise documentation crucial for appropriate care planning.

Documentation Requirements

✓Confirmation of congenital nature of the condition
✓Evidence of absence, atresia, or stenosis of large intestine
✓Reason why specific anatomical location cannot be determined
✓Associated symptoms or complications
✓Surgical interventions performed or planned
✓Current functional status of bowel function
✓Any diagnostic imaging or studies performed

Commonly Confused Codes

Q42.0-Q42.8 — More specific codes when anatomical location is known K59.00 — Constipation, unspecified (acquired, not congenital)K56.60 — Unspecified intestinal obstruction (acquired condition)Q43.1 — Hirschsprung's disease (specific functional disorder)

Code Hierarchy

└Q42Congenital absence, atresia and stenosis of large intestine └Q42.9Congenital absence, atresia and stenosis of large intestine, part unspecified

└Q42.9Congenital absence, atresia and stenosis of large intestine, part unspecified