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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesK26.2

K26.2

Billable

Acute duodenal ulcer with both hemorrhage and perforation

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

Code Description

ICD-10 K26.2 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of acute duodenal ulcer with both hemorrhage and perforation.

Key Diagnostic Point:

K26.2 refers to an acute duodenal ulcer characterized by both hemorrhage and perforation. The duodenum is the first section of the small intestine, and ulcers in this area can arise due to various factors, including excessive use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), infection with Helicobacter pylori, and excessive alcohol consumption. Clinically, patients may present with severe abdominal pain, hematemesis (vomiting blood), melena (black, tarry stools), and signs of peritonitis if perforation occurs. The progression of this condition can lead to significant morbidity, including shock due to hemorrhage or peritonitis due to leakage of intestinal contents into the abdominal cavity. Diagnostic considerations include endoscopy, which allows for direct visualization of the ulcer, and imaging studies such as CT scans to assess for perforation. Prompt diagnosis and intervention are crucial to prevent complications and improve patient outcomes.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: High

High Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires thorough assessment to differentiate from other gastrointestinal conditions.
  • Treatment complexity: May involve surgical intervention, endoscopic procedures, and intensive medical management.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed clinical notes are necessary to support the diagnosis of both hemorrhage and perforation.
  • Coding specificity: Requires precise coding to reflect the severity and complications of the ulcer.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misclassification of the ulcer type or severity.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete clinical notes that do not fully describe the condition.
  • Billing challenges: Potential denials due to insufficient evidence of the acute nature 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

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The clinical significance of K26.2 lies in its potential for severe complications, including life-threatening hemorrhage and peritonitis. This condition impacts population health by increasing hospital admissions and healthcare costs associated with emergency interventions. Quality measures may focus on timely diagnosis and treatment to improve patient outcomes. Epidemiologically, the prevalence of duodenal ulcers is influenced by factors such as NSAID use and H. pylori infection rates, highlighting the need for preventive measures in at-risk populations.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The clinical significance of K26.2 lies in its potential for severe complications, including life-threatening hemorrhage and peritonitis. This condition impacts population health by increasing hospital admissions and healthcare costs associated with emergency interventions. Quality measures may focus on timely diagnosis and treatment to improve patient outcomes. Epidemiologically, the prevalence of duodenal ulcers is influenced by factors such as NSAID use and H. pylori infection rates, highlighting the need for preventive measures in at-risk populations.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include the severity of the condition and the necessity for surgical intervention. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or failure to demonstrate medical necessity for procedures performed. Coders should ensure that all relevant clinical information is captured to support the billing process and reduce the risk of audits.

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 K26.2?

K26.2 covers acute duodenal ulcers that are complicated by both hemorrhage and perforation. This includes cases where the ulcer has led to significant bleeding and has created a hole in the duodenal wall, necessitating urgent medical attention.

When should K26.2 be used instead of related codes?

K26.2 should be used when the clinical scenario involves both hemorrhage and perforation of a duodenal ulcer. If only one of these complications is present, other codes such as K26.0 or K26.1 should be considered.

What documentation supports K26.2?

Documentation should include clinical findings such as symptoms of hemorrhage (e.g., hematemesis, melena), imaging results showing perforation, and any surgical notes if applicable. Comprehensive notes detailing the patient's history and treatment plan are essential.