Diaphragmatic hernia (K44) ICD-10-CM
The K44 code range covers diaphragmatic hernia with 4 ICD-10-CM diagnosis codes. 3 of them are billable and valid for claim submission in fiscal year 2026, and the category headers group them but cannot themselves be billed.
Includes
This note appears immediately under a three character code title to further define, or give examples of, the content of the category.
- hiatus hernia (esophageal) (sliding)
- paraesophageal hernia
Type 1 Excludes
A type 1 excludes note is a pure excludes note. It means "NOT CODED HERE!" An Excludes1 note indicates that the code excluded should never be used at the same time as the code above the Excludes1 note. An Excludes1 is used when two conditions cannot occur together, such as a congenital form versus an acquired form of the same condition.
Codes in the K44 Range 4 codes · 3 billable
About the K44 Code Range
ICD-10 codes for diaphragmatic hernia cover different types of this condition where organs push through the diaphragm. These codes help specify whether the hernia is complicated by obstruction, gangrene, or neither.
The general code K44 represents a diaphragmatic hernia. If the hernia involves obstruction without gangrene, such as an incarcerated or obstructed paraesophageal hernia, the correct code is K44.0. This includes conditions like rolling hiatus hernia with gastric volvulus. When the hernia leads to gangrene, indicated by tissue death such as gastric necrosis, K44.1 is used. This code captures more severe cases like gangrenous paraesophageal hernia with obstruction. Lastly, K44.9 is assigned when the diaphragmatic hernia occurs without obstruction or gangrene. This code also covers sliding or mixed hiatus hernias and those accompanied by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Employing the appropriate ICD-10 code for diaphragmatic hernia ensures clarity in medical records for various presentations, from uncomplicated cases to critical obstructed or gangrenous forms.
Questions About This Page
How many billable codes are in the K44 range?
Of the 4 codes in this range, 3 are billable and valid for claim submission from October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026. Category header codes group them but cannot be reported on claims.
What does the K44 range classify?
The range classifies diaphragmatic hernia. Each code links to its own reference page with billing status, MS-DRG grouping, coding notes, and clinical information.
Related References
Source: CMS FY 2026 ICD-10-CM Tabular List and order file, effective October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026.
