ICD-10 Code K57.41 – Diverticulitis of both small and large intestine with perforation and abscess with bleeding (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K57.41 – Diverticulitis of both small and large intestine with perforation and abscess with bleeding
What it is
This code identifies diverticulitis affecting both the small and large intestine, complicated by perforation, abscess, and bleeding. It means inflamed diverticula have ruptured and formed an infected pocket, with documented gastrointestinal bleeding.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include abdominal pain, fever, localized tenderness, and signs of an intra-abdominal infection. Bleeding may be reported as hematochezia or other documented gastrointestinal bleeding; clinical features vary, so refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use K57.41 when the provider documents diverticulitis involving both small and large intestine with perforation, abscess, and bleeding. You should also use it when imaging or operative notes support these complications and the record clearly ties them to diverticulitis.
Do not assign this code if the bleeding, perforation, or abscess is not documented, or if the anatomic site is different. Check documentation when the note is vague or only says “diverticulitis with complications.”
Do not use for
Do not use for uncomplicated diverticulitis, isolated diverticulosis, or diverticulitis without bleeding. If the record specifies only one intestinal segment or omits the complication details, check documentation.
Coding tip
Confirm all three complications and the dual-intestine location in the same encounter note before assigning K57.41.