What is the ICD-10 (International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision) code and procedure code for disimpaction of the rectum?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: June 8, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

From the Guidelines

The ICD-10 code for rectal impaction is K56.41 (Fecal impaction), and the procedure code for manual disimpaction of the rectum is 0DPNXZZ (Extraction of Rectum, External Approach). This procedure involves the manual removal of impacted stool from the rectum, typically performed when a patient has severe constipation that has resulted in hardened stool that cannot be passed normally. The procedure is generally performed by a healthcare provider using a gloved, lubricated finger to break up and remove the impacted stool. Prior to the procedure, the patient may receive pain medication or sedation depending on the severity of the impaction and patient comfort. Following disimpaction, patients often require follow-up care including stool softeners, increased fluid intake, dietary modifications, and possibly laxatives to prevent recurrence. The condition of fecal impaction typically results from prolonged constipation, inadequate fluid intake, certain medications, or underlying medical conditions that affect bowel motility 1.

Key Considerations

  • The management of fecal impaction may involve a combination of oral and rectal treatments, including laxatives, enemas, and suppositories 1.
  • Manual disimpaction of the rectum is typically performed when other treatments have failed to relieve the impaction 1.
  • The use of enemas and suppositories should be guided by the patient's medical history and current condition, as certain types of enemas and suppositories may be contraindicated in certain situations 1.
  • The patient's quality of life and comfort should be taken into consideration when determining the best course of treatment for fecal impaction 1.

Procedure Details

  • The procedure code for manual disimpaction of the rectum is 0DPNXZZ (Extraction of Rectum, External Approach) 1.
  • The procedure is typically performed by a healthcare provider using a gloved, lubricated finger to break up and remove the impacted stool 1.
  • Prior to the procedure, the patient may receive pain medication or sedation depending on the severity of the impaction and patient comfort 1.

Follow-up Care

  • Following disimpaction, patients often require follow-up care including stool softeners, increased fluid intake, dietary modifications, and possibly laxatives to prevent recurrence 1.
  • The patient's bowel habits and overall health should be monitored closely after the procedure to prevent future episodes of fecal impaction 1.

From the Research

ICD-10 Code for Disimpaction of the Rectum

  • The ICD-10 code for disimpaction of the rectum is not explicitly stated in the provided studies 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.

Procedure Code for Disimpaction of the Rectum

  • The procedure code for disimpaction of the rectum is not directly mentioned in the studies, but treatment options include:
    • Manual disimpaction or fragmentation 2, 3, 4
    • Distal and/or proximal softening or washout procedures such as enemas and suppositories 2, 3
    • Oral or nasogastric tube placement for the administration of polyethylene glycol solutions containing electrolytes 2
    • Surgical intervention in severe cases 2, 3
    • Ultrasonic lithotripsy as a novel approach for prolonged fecal impaction 5

Relevant Codes

  • While the exact ICD-10 and procedure codes are not provided, the studies suggest that disimpaction of the rectum is a treatment for fecal impaction, which can be coded under various diagnoses related to constipation and bowel obstruction.

References

Guideline

Guideline Directed Topic Overview

Dr.Oracle Medical Advisory Board & Editors, 2025

Research

Fecal impaction in adults.

JAAPA : official journal of the American Academy of Physician Assistants, 2023

Research

Fecal impaction.

Current gastroenterology reports, 2014

Research

Fecal impaction.

Clinics in colon and rectal surgery, 2005

Research

Management and prevention of fecal impaction.

Current gastroenterology reports, 2008

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.