ICD-10 Code K42.9 – Umbilical hernia without obstruction or gangrene (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K42.9 – Umbilical hernia without obstruction or gangrene
What it is
K42.9 identifies an umbilical hernia at the navel that is not blocked and has no gangrene. Use it when the hernia is present but there is no documented incarceration, obstruction, or tissue death.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include a soft bulge at or near the umbilicus that may become more noticeable with coughing, straining, or standing. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use K42.9 when the provider documents an umbilical hernia and does not describe obstruction, strangulation, or gangrene. It also fits routine evaluation notes, imaging reports, or problem lists that specify an uncomplicated umbilical hernia. If the record is unclear, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code if the hernia is documented as obstructed, incarcerated with obstruction, or gangrenous. Do not assign it when the note describes a different type of hernia or gives no clear diagnosis.
Coding tip
Code the exact hernia status from the provider’s wording, and query if the record does not clearly state whether obstruction or gangrene is present.