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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesQ44.0

Q44.0

Billable

Agenesis, aplasia and hypoplasia of gallbladder

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/11/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 Q44.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of agenesis, aplasia and hypoplasia of gallbladder.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Agenesis, aplasia, and hypoplasia of the gallbladder are congenital malformations characterized by the absence (agenesis), underdevelopment (hypoplasia), or incomplete development (aplasia) of the gallbladder. These conditions can lead to various digestive issues, as the gallbladder plays a crucial role in bile storage and release, which is essential for fat digestion. In pediatric patients, these conditions may be associated with other congenital anomalies, particularly those affecting the biliary tract and the digestive system. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, jaundice, and digestive disturbances. Diagnosis is typically made through imaging studies such as ultrasound or MRI, which can reveal the absence or abnormal size of the gallbladder. Management may involve dietary modifications and monitoring for complications, as surgical intervention is rarely required unless associated with other significant anomalies.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between agenesis, aplasia, and hypoplasia
  • Potential association with other congenital anomalies
  • Need for precise documentation of imaging findings
  • Variability in clinical presentation

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of associated congenital anomalies
  • Failure to specify the type of gallbladder malformation
  • Misclassification of the condition due to similar codes
  • Lack of imaging reports to support diagnosis

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes including symptoms, imaging results, and any associated congenital conditions.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Pediatric patients presenting with abdominal pain, jaundice, or failure to thrive may require evaluation for gallbladder anomalies.

Billing Considerations

Pediatric coders should be aware of the developmental implications of gallbladder malformations and their potential impact on growth and nutrition.

Genetics

Documentation Requirements

Genetic testing results, family history of congenital conditions, and any syndromic associations.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Genetic counseling for families with a history of congenital digestive anomalies, including gallbladder malformations.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of chromosomal abnormalities that may be associated with gallbladder agenesis or hypoplasia, such as trisomy 18.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use Q44.0 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding congenital malformations, ensuring accurate documentation of the condition's specifics and any associated anomalies

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use Q44.0 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

47562CPT Code

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases where gallbladder anomalies lead to complications requiring surgical intervention.

Documentation Requirements

Surgical reports detailing the findings and procedures performed.

Specialty Considerations

Pediatric surgeons should document any congenital findings during surgery.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital conditions, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes for congenital malformations.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital conditions, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes for congenital malformations.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes for congenital malformations.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of gallbladder agenesis in infants?

Common symptoms include jaundice, abdominal pain, and failure to thrive. These symptoms arise due to the lack of bile storage and release, which is critical for digestion.