ICD-10 Code K56.51 – Intestinal adhesions [bands], with partial obstruction (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K56.51 – Intestinal adhesions [bands], with partial obstruction
What it is
K56.51 identifies adhesions or bands in the intestine that are causing a partial blockage. Use it when scar tissue or fibrous bands narrow the bowel but do not completely stop passage.
Clinical signs
Patients may have crampy abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, vomiting, and reduced stool or gas passage. Imaging or operative findings should support partial obstruction from adhesions; clinical features vary, refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use K56.51 when the provider documents intestinal adhesions or bands with partial obstruction, such as after prior abdominal surgery. It also fits cases where imaging, surgery, or discharge diagnosis confirms a partial adhesive bowel obstruction. If the record only states obstruction without cause, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for complete bowel obstruction, paralytic ileus, or abdominal pain without documented adhesive obstruction. If the cause is another condition, code that diagnosis instead.
Coding tip
Look for the exact terms “adhesions,” “bands,” and “partial obstruction” in the provider record before assigning K56.51.