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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC16.6

C16.6

Billable

Malignant neoplasm of greater curvature of stomach, unspecified

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C16.6 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of malignant neoplasm of greater curvature of stomach, unspecified.

Key Diagnostic Point:

C16.6 refers to a malignant neoplasm located on the greater curvature of the stomach, which is the outer curve of the stomach. Gastric cancer, or stomach cancer, is a significant health concern globally, often associated with chronic infection by Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), a bacterium that can lead to chronic gastritis and is a known risk factor for gastric adenocarcinoma. The disease may present with nonspecific symptoms such as abdominal pain, weight loss, and gastrointestinal bleeding, making early diagnosis challenging. Staging of gastric cancer is crucial for determining treatment options and prognosis, typically classified using the TNM system (Tumor, Node, Metastasis). Treatment often involves surgical intervention, such as gastrectomy, which may be total or partial, depending on the extent of the disease. Postoperative care and monitoring for recurrence are essential components of management. Accurate coding of gastric cancer is vital for appropriate treatment planning and reimbursement.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in staging and treatment options based on tumor location and extent.
  • Need for precise documentation of symptoms and diagnostic findings.
  • Differentiation from benign gastric conditions and other malignancies.
  • Potential for multiple codes related to gastric cancer treatment and complications.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of staging and treatment plans.
  • Failure to specify the exact location of the neoplasm.
  • Misclassification of gastric cancer as benign conditions.
  • Lack of follow-up documentation post-surgery.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed pathology reports, imaging studies, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Diagnosis and management of gastric cancer, staging evaluations, and treatment planning.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate documentation of tumor characteristics and staging to support coding.

Gastroenterology

Documentation Requirements

Endoscopy reports, biopsy results, and H. pylori testing.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Evaluation of gastric symptoms, management of H. pylori infection, and surveillance for gastric cancer.

Billing Considerations

Document any findings related to gastric mucosal changes and H. pylori status.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C16.6 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the diagnosis, staging, and treatment
  • Include any relevant comorbidities and complications

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C16.6 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

43631CPT Code

Laparoscopic total gastrectomy

Clinical Scenario

Used for patients diagnosed with gastric cancer requiring surgical intervention.

Documentation Requirements

Operative reports detailing the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Oncology specialists should ensure accurate coding of the procedure in relation to the diagnosis.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of gastric cancer, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. C16.6 provides a clear designation for unspecified malignant neoplasms of the stomach, facilitating better tracking of treatment outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of gastric cancer, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. C16.6 provides a clear designation for unspecified malignant neoplasms of the stomach, facilitating better tracking of treatment outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. C16.6 provides a clear designation for unspecified malignant neoplasms of the stomach, facilitating better tracking of treatment outcomes.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Cancer Society - Gastric Cancer

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Cancer Society - Gastric Cancer

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of gastric cancer?

Common symptoms include abdominal pain, weight loss, nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal bleeding. However, many patients may be asymptomatic in the early stages.

How is gastric cancer staged?

Gastric cancer is staged using the TNM system, which assesses the size of the tumor (T), lymph node involvement (N), and the presence of metastasis (M).

What is the role of H. pylori in gastric cancer?

H. pylori infection is a significant risk factor for gastric cancer, as it can lead to chronic inflammation and changes in the gastric mucosa that may progress to cancer.