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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesK25.6

K25.6

Billable

Chronic or unspecified gastric ulcer with both hemorrhage and perforation

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/06/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 K25.6 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of chronic or unspecified gastric ulcer with both hemorrhage and perforation.

Key Diagnostic Point:

K25.6 refers to a chronic or unspecified gastric ulcer that is complicated by both hemorrhage and perforation. Gastric ulcers are lesions that develop on the lining of the stomach, often due to factors such as Helicobacter pylori infection, prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or excessive alcohol consumption. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and in severe cases, signs of gastrointestinal bleeding, such as melena or hematemesis. The anatomy involved includes the gastric mucosa, submucosa, and muscularis layers of the stomach. Disease progression can lead to complications like perforation, which can result in peritonitis, a life-threatening condition requiring immediate surgical intervention. Diagnostic considerations include endoscopy, imaging studies, and laboratory tests to assess hemoglobin levels and confirm the presence of an ulcer. Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective management and treatment planning.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: High

High Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires thorough evaluation to differentiate from other gastrointestinal conditions.
  • Treatment complexity: May necessitate surgical intervention alongside medical management.
  • Documentation requirements: Extensive documentation needed to justify the diagnosis and treatment.
  • Coding specificity: High specificity required to accurately capture the nature of the ulcer and associated complications.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misclassification of ulcer type or complications.
  • Documentation gaps: Insufficient clinical evidence to support the diagnosis.
  • Billing challenges: Potential for denials if documentation does not clearly indicate the severity and complications.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Gastroenterology

Documentation Requirements

Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply

Common Clinical Scenarios

Various clinical presentations within this specialty area

Billing Considerations

Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines

General Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply

Common Clinical Scenarios

Various clinical presentations within this specialty area

Billing Considerations

Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The clinical significance of K25.6 lies in its potential to lead to severe complications, including significant morbidity and mortality if not managed promptly. The population health impact is notable, as gastric ulcers are prevalent in various demographics, particularly among older adults and those with chronic NSAID use. Quality measures focus on timely diagnosis and effective management to reduce hospitalizations and improve patient outcomes. Understanding healthcare utilization patterns related to K25.6 can aid in resource allocation and preventive strategies in at-risk populations.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The clinical significance of K25.6 lies in its potential to lead to severe complications, including significant morbidity and mortality if not managed promptly. The population health impact is notable, as gastric ulcers are prevalent in various demographics, particularly among older adults and those with chronic NSAID use. Quality measures focus on timely diagnosis and effective management to reduce hospitalizations and improve patient outcomes. Understanding healthcare utilization patterns related to K25.6 can aid in resource allocation and preventive strategies in at-risk populations.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations may vary based on the severity of the condition and the treatment rendered. Common denials can occur if the documentation does not adequately demonstrate the necessity for surgical intervention or if there are discrepancies in the coding. Best practices include thorough documentation of symptoms, treatment plans, and follow-up care.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10 Official Guidelines for K00-K99
  • •
    Clinical Documentation Requirements

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10 Official Guidelines for K00-K99
  • •
    Clinical Documentation Requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

What specific conditions are covered by K25.6?

K25.6 specifically covers chronic gastric ulcers that have progressed to include both hemorrhage and perforation. This code is used when the ulcer is not classified as acute and has significant complications that require careful management.

When should K25.6 be used instead of related codes?

K25.6 should be used when there is clear documentation of a chronic gastric ulcer with both hemorrhage and perforation. If the ulcer is acute or does not have both complications, other codes such as K25.0 or K25.1 should be considered.

What documentation supports K25.6?

Documentation should include clinical findings from endoscopy, imaging results, laboratory tests indicating anemia or blood loss, and a clear treatment plan that addresses both the ulcer and its complications.