ICD-10 Code K91.71 – Accidental puncture and laceration of a digestive system organ or structure during a digestive system procedure (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K91.71 – Accidental puncture and laceration of a digestive system organ or structure during a digestive system procedure
What it is
K91.71 identifies an unintentional puncture or laceration of a digestive organ or structure that occurs during a digestive system procedure. Use it when the injury is documented as a procedural complication, not as the original reason for care.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Findings may include recognized organ injury, unexpected bleeding, leakage, or the need for repair during or after the procedure.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record clearly states that a digestive organ or related structure was accidentally punctured or cut during a GI procedure. The complication should be linked to the procedure, such as endoscopy, surgery, or another digestive intervention. If the note only says “injury” without stating it was accidental or procedure-related, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for intentional surgical resection, planned enterotomy, or injuries unrelated to a digestive system procedure. Do not assign it when the documentation does not support an accidental procedural complication.
Coding tip
Look for wording like “accidental,” “intraoperative,” or “during procedure,” and confirm the affected digestive structure before coding.