ICD-10 Coding for Cholecystitis(K80.10, K81.0)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Cholecystitis. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Cholecystitis
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| K80.10 | Calculus of gallbladder with chronic cholecystitis without obstruction | Use when chronic cholecystitis is confirmed with gallstones present and no obstruction. |
|
| K81.0 | Acute cholecystitis | Use when acute symptoms are present without gallstones. |
|
Clinical Decision Support
Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for chronic cholecystitis with gallstones
Essential facts and insights about Cholecystitis
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for cholecystitis
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of gallstones and chronic inflammation
Applicable To
- Chronic cholecystitis with gallstones
Excludes
- Acute cholecystitis without gallstones (K81.0)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Histopathology confirming chronic cholecystitis
- Imaging showing gallstones
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification if acute symptoms are present
Coding Notes
- Ensure chronicity is documented with histopathology.
K81.0 - Acute cholecystitis
Use when acute symptoms are present without gallstones.
Applicable To
- Acute inflammation of the gallbladder
Excludes
- Chronic cholecystitis (K81.1)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Fever, RUQ pain, positive Murphy's sign
- Imaging showing gallbladder wall thickening
Coding Notes
Document acute symptoms clearly to avoid misclassification.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Cholecystitis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K80.10.
Impact
Clinical: Leads to inappropriate treatment plans., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for claim denials due to unspecified coding.
Mitigation Strategy
Always specify acute or chronic in documentation., Use clinical criteria to guide documentation.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Use K80.0x codes for acute cholecystitis with gallstones.
Impact
High risk of audits for using unspecified codes.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation specifies acute or chronic and presence of gallstones.
Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Cholecystitis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Cholecystitis
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Cholecystitis. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Emergency Department Note
Specialty: Emergency MedicineRequired Elements
- HPI
- Labs
- Imaging
- Assessment
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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