ICD-10 Code K41.3 – Unilateral femoral hernia, with obstruction, without gangrene (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K41.3 – Unilateral femoral hernia, with obstruction, without gangrene
What it is
This code identifies a femoral hernia on one side that is obstructed, meaning bowel or other tissue cannot pass normally through the hernia opening. There is no gangrene, so the trapped tissue has not lost blood supply to the point of necrosis.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include a groin bulge below the inguinal ligament, pain, and signs of bowel obstruction such as nausea, vomiting, or abdominal distention. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use K41.3 when the record clearly documents a unilateral femoral hernia with obstruction and explicitly states there is no gangrene. This is appropriate for encounters where the diagnosis is confirmed clinically, surgically, or by imaging. If laterality is not documented, check documentation before coding.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for femoral hernia without obstruction, or when gangrene is documented. It is also incorrect for inguinal hernias or unspecified abdominal hernias.
Coding tip
Verify both obstruction and absence of gangrene in the provider note before assigning K41.3.