Answer :
Final answer:
The ICD-10-CM code: K40.90. This code covers unilateral inguinal hernia without obstruction or gangrene, not specified as recurrent. If more details are known, then codes with higher specificity should be used.
Explanation:
In coding for medical diagnoses using the ICD-10-CM, specific codes need to be used to accurately describe a patient's condition.
In the case of a patient with both right and left inguinal hernia, the ICD-10-CM coding would reflect each specific side of the hernia for proper diagnosis recording and subsequent treatment and billing.
Therefore, for a right inguinal hernia, ICD-10-CM Code K40.90 (Unilateral inguinal hernia, without obstruction or gangrene, not specified as recurrent) may be used, and for a left inguinal hernia, ICD-10-CM Code K40.90 would also apply as it encompasses unilateral inguinal hernia on either side when not further specified.
However, if additional details about the hernias are known, such as if they are recurrent, obstructed, or with gangrene, different codes would be appropriate, and in those cases, medical professionals would select codes that provide higher specificity.
For example, recurrent hernias have codes ending in .1 instead of .0, and for hernias with obstruction or gangrene, codes ending in .2 or .3 would be used, respectively.
It is important to always refer to the most current ICD-10-CM coding guidelines to ensure accurate and specific coding.
