Wiki Initial or Recurrent Ventral Hernia

[JParker5]

Hi,

I'm reviewing an op note that doesn't state if the hernia is initial or recurrent. My first thought is to code initial but just checking to see if there are any guidelines that state if not documented we must code recurrent. Please help.

Thank You

 

[danskangel313]

I would query the provider first rather than resorting to a default choice per guidelines.

 

[CodingKing]

Since there is no guideline you need to query. Its not a new concept in ICD-10 so physicians should already know they need to specify Initial vs recurrent (especially since the treatment is usually different for the 2 types). A recurrent Ventral hernia is actually considered an incisional hernia according to ICD.