ICD-10 Code K57.32 – Diverticulitis of large intestine without perforation or abscess without bleeding (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K57.32 – Diverticulitis of large intestine without perforation or abscess without bleeding
What it is
K57.32 identifies diverticulitis affecting the large intestine when the inflamed diverticula are not perforated, do not form an abscess, and are not bleeding. Use it for uncomplicated diverticulitis documented in the colon or large bowel.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include localized abdominal pain, tenderness, and sometimes fever or bowel habit changes. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation, and confirm that perforation, abscess, or bleeding is not described.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents diverticulitis of the colon or large intestine without perforation, abscess, or hemorrhage. It fits uncomplicated episodes managed as outpatient or inpatient when imaging or assessment supports diverticulitis and no complication is recorded.
If the note only says “diverticulitis” and specifies the large intestine with no complication, this code is usually appropriate. Check documentation if the site is unclear, if the episode is recurrent, or if a complication is mentioned elsewhere in the record.
Do not use for
Do not use K57.32 if perforation, abscess, or bleeding is documented. Also avoid it when the record identifies a different bowel site or a more specific diverticular complication; Check documentation.
Coding tip
Code only what the provider documents, and verify that “without perforation or abscess without bleeding” is explicitly supported.