ICD-10 Code K51.012 – Ulcerative (chronic) pancolitis with intestinal obstruction (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K51.012 – Ulcerative (chronic) pancolitis with intestinal obstruction
What it is
This code identifies ulcerative colitis involving the entire colon, with a documented intestinal obstruction. Use it when the record clearly states both pancolitis and obstruction.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include chronic colitis symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and diffuse colonic inflammation. Obstruction may present with distention, reduced stool passage, or imaging evidence; clinical features vary, refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use K51.012 when the provider documents ulcerative chronic pancolitis and also notes intestinal obstruction as part of the encounter diagnosis. It is appropriate for inpatient, outpatient, or problem-list coding when both conditions are confirmed. If the obstruction is suspected but not documented, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for ulcerative colitis without pancolitis, or for intestinal obstruction caused by another disease process. Also avoid it when the chart does not clearly support chronic ulcerative disease with obstruction.
Coding tip
Verify that both the extent of colitis and the obstruction are explicitly documented before assigning K51.012.