Fecal Incontinence and Fecal Impaction

Why This Topic Matters

The update changes how fecal-related symptoms and impaction are represented in ICD-9-CM, so accurate familiarity helps support consistent documentation and code selection within the affected digestive-system category.

Article Sections

1. ICD-9-CM code update effective October 1, 2010

   Introduces the revision to the digestive-system symptom category and the addition of a separate code for fecal impaction. The section frames the scope of the updated terminology and related instructional notes.

2. Clinical background on fecal incontinence

   Summarizes general causes, mechanisms, and treatment approaches for fecal incontinence. The content provides clinical context for understanding the symptom group addressed by the code update.

3. Clinical background on fecal impaction

   Describes fecal impaction at a high level, including common contributing factors and general treatment considerations. This section supports understanding of the separate impaction concept referenced in the coding update.

4. ICD-9-CM code listing and instructional notes

   Presents the revised digestive-system symptom codes and the related impaction code within the ICD-9-CM structure. It also includes the exclusions and deletion notice associated with the update.