ICD-10 Code K43.7 – Other and unspecified ventral hernia with gangrene (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K43.7 – Other and unspecified ventral hernia with gangrene
What it is
K43.7 identifies a ventral hernia in the abdominal wall that has become gangrenous, meaning the trapped tissue has lost blood supply and died. Use it for other or unspecified ventral hernias when gangrene is documented.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Gangrene may be described with severe pain, skin discoloration, tenderness, or signs of incarcerated hernia, but the record must clearly state gangrene or necrotic tissue.
When to use this code
Use K43.7 when the provider documents a ventral hernia with gangrene and does not specify a more exact ventral hernia type. It also applies when the note says “other” or “unspecified” ventral hernia with gangrene. Check documentation for any associated obstruction or a more specific hernia site.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for ventral hernia without gangrene, even if it is painful or incarcerated. Also avoid it when the hernia type is specified elsewhere and a more precise code is available.
Coding tip
Confirm both the ventral hernia location and the presence of gangrene in the provider note before assigning K43.7.