ICD-10 Code K43.9 – Ventral hernia without obstruction or gangrene (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K43.9 – Ventral hernia without obstruction or gangrene
What it is
K43.9 identifies a ventral hernia in the abdominal wall when there is no bowel obstruction and no gangrene. Use it for a protrusion through the ventral abdominal wall that is not described as incarcerated or strangulated.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical findings include an abdominal wall bulge, discomfort, or a reducible mass that becomes more noticeable with coughing or straining.
When to use this code
Use K43.9 when the provider documents a ventral hernia and does not report obstruction, gangrene, or another more specific type. It also fits cases where the hernia is present but the record does not specify incarceration or strangulation. If the note is unclear, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code if the hernia is documented with obstruction or gangrene, or if a more specific ventral hernia code is available. Check documentation for incisional, umbilical, or recurrent details.
Coding tip
Confirm the exact hernia type and whether obstruction or gangrene is present before assigning K43.9.