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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesK81.0

K81.0

Billable

Acute cholecystitis

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

Code Description

ICD-10 K81.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of acute cholecystitis.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Acute cholecystitis is an inflammation of the gallbladder, usually caused by a blockage of the cystic duct by gallstones. Symptoms often include severe abdominal pain, fever, and nausea. Diagnosis is typically confirmed through imaging studies such as ultrasound or CT scans. Treatment usually involves hospitalization, where patients may receive antibiotics and may require surgical intervention, such as cholecystectomy, to remove the inflamed gallbladder. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • acute inflammation
  • risk of perforation

Audit Risk Factors

    Specialty Focus

    Related ICD-10 Codes

    Related CPT Codes

    47563CPT Code

    Clinical Scenario

    Documentation Requirements

    ICD-10 Impact

    Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

    Enhanced Specificity

    ICD-10 Improvements

    Delayed treatment can lead to serious complications, including perforation and sepsis.

    ICD-9 vs ICD-10

    Delayed treatment can lead to serious complications, including perforation and sepsis.

    Reimbursement & Billing Impact

    reimbursement.

    Resources

    Clinical References

    • •
      Acute Cholecystitis Management

    Coding & Billing References

    • •
      Acute Cholecystitis Management

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What causes acute cholecystitis?

    It is commonly caused by gallstones blocking the cystic duct.

    What are the treatment options?

    Treatment often includes antibiotics and surgery to remove the gallbladder.