K40.90 Unilateral inguinal hernia, without obstruction or gangrene, not specified as recurrent

ICD10CM code

#### Name of the Condition
- Unilateral Inguinal Hernia, Without Obstruction or Gangrene, Not Specified as Recurrent
- Medical term: Inguinal Hernia (ICD-10 Code: K40.90)

#### Summary
- An inguinal hernia occurs when tissue, such as part of the intestine, protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles. It appears as a bulge in the groin that may cause discomfort.

#### Causes
- A weakened spot in the abdominal wall present from birth or acquired through strain, lifting heavy objects, persistent coughing, or obesity.

#### Risk Factors
- Being male, chronic coughing, age (older adults), family history of hernias, obesity, and certain occupations involving heavy lifting.

#### Symptoms
- A noticeable bulge in the groin area, discomfort or pain when bending over or lifting, and a feeling of heaviness or weakness in the groin.

#### Diagnosis
- Typically diagnosed through physical examination. Ultrasound or CT scan may be used for confirmation.

#### Treatment Options
- Observation if asymptomatic. Surgical repair is common, either via open inguinal hernia repair or laparoscopic surgery, to prevent complications. 

#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- The outlook is generally good with surgical repair. Regular follow-ups are recommended to ensure healing and to check for potential recurrence.

#### Complications
- Incarceration (trapped hernia), though rare for those without obstruction, or strangulation (cutting off blood supply) if untreated.

#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Maintain a healthy weight, avoid heavy lifting, practice proper lifting techniques, stop smoking to reduce coughing.

#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Sudden pain, nausea, vomiting, or inability to push the hernia back in, indicating possible incarceration or strangulation.

#### Additional Resources
- American Hernia Society: [herniasociety.org](https://www.herniasociety.org)
- Mayo Clinic: [mayoclinic.org](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/inguinal-hernia)

#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure correct code by confirming no obstruction or gangrene and that it's not recurrent.
- Be precise with documentation to avoid selecting a similar but incorrect code.

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