ICD-10 Code K55.0 – Acute vascular disorders of intestine (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K55.0 – Acute vascular disorders of intestine
What it is
K55.0 identifies sudden blood-flow problems affecting the intestine. This code covers acute vascular compromise that can threaten bowel viability and requires prompt clinical attention.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include acute abdominal pain, tenderness, and possible signs of intestinal ischemia or infarction. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use K55.0 when the record documents an acute vascular disorder of the intestine, such as ischemic injury from impaired blood supply. Apply it when the provider clearly links the bowel problem to an acute vascular cause. Check documentation if the note only states abdominal pain or nonspecific bowel symptoms.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for chronic intestinal vascular disease or nonvascular gastrointestinal disorders. If the diagnosis is uncertain or described differently, check documentation.
Coding tip
Assign K55.0 only when the provider documents an acute vascular intestinal disorder, not just suspected ischemia or abdominal pain.