ICD-10 Code K22.2 – Esophageal Obstruction (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K22.2 – Esophageal obstruction
What it is
K22.2 identifies blockage or narrowing of the esophagus that interferes with passage of food or liquid. Use it for documented esophageal obstruction, including mechanical causes when the record supports this diagnosis.
Clinical signs
Patients may report dysphagia, food sticking, regurgitation, or inability to swallow normally. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation and any endoscopic, imaging, or specialist findings supporting obstruction.
When to use this code
Use K22.2 when the provider documents esophageal obstruction as the condition being treated or evaluated. It fits encounters for suspected or confirmed blockage of the esophagus, including cases described as narrowing or occlusion. Code the documented diagnosis, not the symptom alone.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for isolated dysphagia without documented obstruction. If the chart describes another esophageal disorder, such as reflux or motility problems, check documentation and code the stated condition instead.
Coding tip
Look for the provider’s exact wording and any stated cause, because “difficulty swallowing” alone is usually not enough for K22.2.