ICD-10 Code K55.022 – Diffuse acute infarction of small intestine (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K55.022 – Diffuse acute infarction of small intestine
What it is
K55.022 identifies a diffuse acute loss of blood supply causing ischemic injury and infarction throughout the small intestine. It describes an acute, serious vascular event affecting a broad segment rather than a focal area.
Clinical signs
Patients may present with sudden severe abdominal pain, tenderness, and signs of bowel ischemia. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for imaging, operative, or pathology confirmation of diffuse small-bowel infarction.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record documents diffuse acute infarction of the small intestine, including ischemic necrosis involving the small bowel. It fits confirmed cases supported by imaging, surgery, or pathology. Do not infer diffuse involvement from nonspecific abdominal pain alone.
Do not use for
Do not use it for chronic mesenteric ischemia, localized bowel infarction, or ischemia limited to another intestinal segment. Check documentation if the note only states “ischemic bowel” without specifying diffuse acute small-intestine infarction.
Coding tip
Code from the most specific provider statement, and verify that “diffuse,” “acute,” and “small intestine” are all documented.