Cholecystitis ICD-10-CM Codes

Get insights on Cholecystitis ICD codes. Learn about standard codes, their clinical descriptions, billability, related synonyms, and unique FAQs.

By Karina Jimenea on Feb 29, 2024.

Fact Checked by Ericka Pingol.

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Cholecystitis ICD-10-CM Codes

What ICD-10 Codes Are Used for Cholecystitis?

The accurate diagnosis and billing of Cholecystitis can be achieved using the correct ICD-10 codes. Here are some commonly used Cholecystitis ICD codes:

  • K81.0: Acute cholecystitis
  • K81.1: Chronic cholecystitis
  • K81.2: Acute cholecystitis with chronic cholecystitis
  • K81.9: Cholecystitis, unspecified

Which Cholecystitis ICD Codes Are Billable?

  • K81.0: Yes, this code is billable. It specifically denotes acute cholecystitis.
  • K81.1: Yes, this code is billable as it signifies chronic cholecystitis.
  • K81.2: Yes, it's billable because it describes acute cholecystitis with chronic cholecystitis.
  • K81.9: Yes, this is a billable code concerning unspecified cholecystitis.

Clinical Information

Cholecystitis is an inflammation of the gallbladder that can cause severe abdominal pain. Here's more about this condition:

  • Causes: Most commonly, gallstones blocking the tube leading out of the gallbladder cause cholecystitis, leading to a build-up of bile that can cause inflammation.
  • Symptoms: Include severe pain in the right abdomen, nausea, vomiting, and fever.
  • Treatment: Often involves gallbladder removal surgery, though in some cases, medication can be used to dissolve gallstones.
  • Risk Factors: Being female, overweight, and age 40 or above increases the risk.
  • Complications: The gallbladder can rupture without treatment, leading to a potentially fatal infection.

Synonyms Include:

  • Gallbladder Inflammation
  • Gallbladder Disease
  • Biliary Tract Disease
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Commonly asked questions

What differentiates the codes K81.0 and K81.1?

K81.0 refers to acute cholecystitis, indicating a sudden onset of symptoms, while K81.1 represents chronic cholecystitis, which implies long-term gallbladder inflammation.

What does the term 'unspecified' mean in the context of the K81.9 code?

Unspecified in K81.9 means the documentation needs to provide more details to specify whether the cholecystitis is acute, chronic, or both.

Can cholecystitis be treated without surgery?

Yes, in some cases, medication can be used to dissolve gallstones that are causing cholecystitis, but surgery is often recommended to prevent future episodes.

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