ICD 10 CM S35.231D | Description & Clinical Information

ICD 10 S35.231D is a medical code that describes a minor laceration of the inferior mesenteric artery, which is one of the three major branches of the abdominal aorta that originates at the L3 level and supplies the lower part of the large intestine and rectum, and is caused by blunt or penetrating trauma from a motor vehicle accident or sports activity, a puncture or gunshot wound, external compression or force, or injury during surgery, and is applicable to the subsequent encounter for the injury.

Official Description Of S35.231D

The ICD 10 CM book defines ICD 10 code S35.231D as:

When To Use S35.231D

The diagnosis describes by ICD 10 CM S35.231D refers to a minor injury to the inferior mesenteric artery. Though the injury may seem minor, it can have severe effects on the body.

One of the most common symptoms of this injury is severe abdominal and back pain. Patients may also experience bloody stools, less or no bowel movements, swelling, and hypotension, or low blood pressure, due to blood loss. In severe cases, intestinal necrosis and sepsis may result, which can be fatal.

To diagnose the injury, providers rely on a patient’s history and physical examination. A vascular assessment is conducted, which includes auscultation for the presence of bruits. Laboratory studies of the blood are also necessary, specifically for coagulation factors and platelets. Additionally, if contrast imaging studies are necessary, BUN and creatinine tests are conducted to evaluate kidney function. Imaging studies such as Xrays, venography, angiography, urography, duplex Doppler scan, magnetic resonance angiography, or MRA, and single or multiphase computed tomography angiography, or CTA, may also be used for more accurate diagnosis.

Treatment options for ICD 10 CM S35.231D include observation, anticoagulation or antiplatelet therapy, along with intravenous antibiotics, and, if indicated, endovascular surgery to repair the tear or place a stent in the vessel. Treatment of the minor injury may prevent the potential for more serious health conditions.

It is important to understand that even minor injuries can have significant consequences, and prompt diagnosis and treatment are critical for a favorable outcome. Though this diagnosis code is specific to an injury of the inferior mesenteric artery, it serves as a reminder that all diagnoses, regardless of how minor they may seem, must be taken seriously in the healthcare field. Healthcare providers must always strive to provide comprehensive and accurate care to their patients.