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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesChapter 2: NeoplasmsC23

C23

Billable

Malignant neoplasm of gallbladder

Chapter 2:Neoplasms

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/05/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 C23 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of malignant neoplasm of gallbladder.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Malignant neoplasm of the gallbladder is a rare but aggressive form of cancer that arises from the epithelial cells lining the gallbladder. It is often associated with gallstones and chronic inflammation, which can lead to dysplasia and subsequent malignant transformation. Patients may present with nonspecific symptoms such as abdominal pain, jaundice, and weight loss, which can complicate early diagnosis. Imaging studies, including ultrasound, CT scans, and MRI, are crucial for identifying gallbladder masses, assessing the extent of disease, and evaluating for metastasis. Surgical resection remains the primary treatment modality, but due to the anatomical location and potential for local invasion, complete surgical excision can be challenging. The prognosis for gallbladder cancer is generally poor, with a five-year survival rate significantly lower than many other malignancies, primarily due to late-stage diagnosis. Multidisciplinary management involving surgical oncology, medical oncology, and radiology is essential for optimizing patient outcomes.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: High

High Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in presentation and symptoms leading to potential misdiagnosis
  • Need for precise staging and assessment of metastasis
  • Complexity in surgical coding due to the nature of gallbladder resections
  • Potential for concurrent biliary tract cancers complicating coding

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of imaging findings
  • Failure to document the extent of disease or metastasis
  • Incorrect coding of surgical procedures performed
  • Lack of clarity in the diagnosis leading to potential upcoding or downcoding

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Surgical Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative reports, including type of resection and findings.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing cholecystectomy for suspected malignancy.

Billing Considerations

Ensure documentation reflects the complexity of the surgical procedure and any complications.

Radiology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive imaging reports detailing findings and recommendations.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Imaging for staging and follow-up of gallbladder cancer.

Billing Considerations

Clear documentation of imaging techniques and findings is crucial for accurate coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C23 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the diagnosis, staging, and any associated conditions
  • Include details on imaging findings and surgical interventions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C23 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related CPT Codes

47563CPT Code

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy

Clinical Scenario

Used when a patient with suspected gallbladder cancer undergoes surgery.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Surgical oncology must document any findings that indicate malignancy.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of gallbladder cancer, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. It has also facilitated better tracking of treatment outcomes and epidemiological studies.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of gallbladder cancer, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. It has also facilitated better tracking of treatment outcomes and epidemiological studies.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. It has also facilitated better tracking of treatment outcomes and epidemiological studies.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Cancer Society - Gallbladder Cancer

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Cancer Society - Gallbladder Cancer

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of gallbladder cancer?

Common symptoms include abdominal pain, jaundice, unexplained weight loss, and nausea. However, symptoms can be vague and may not appear until the cancer is advanced.