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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesK82.1

K82.1

Billable

Hydrops of gallbladder

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

Code Description

ICD-10 K82.1 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of hydrops of gallbladder.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Hydrops of the gallbladder, also known as gallbladder distension, is a condition characterized by the accumulation of bile within the gallbladder due to obstruction of the cystic duct. This obstruction can be caused by gallstones, tumors, or strictures, leading to increased pressure and subsequent distension of the gallbladder. Clinically, patients may present with right upper quadrant pain, nausea, vomiting, and jaundice, although some may be asymptomatic. The gallbladder is a small organ located beneath the liver, responsible for storing bile produced by the liver, which aids in digestion. If left untreated, hydrops can progress to cholecystitis, a more severe inflammation of the gallbladder, which may require surgical intervention. Diagnostic considerations include imaging studies such as ultrasound or CT scans to confirm the presence of gallstones or other obstructions. Laboratory tests may also be performed to assess liver function and rule out other gastrointestinal conditions. Early diagnosis and management are crucial to prevent complications associated with this condition.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires imaging and clinical correlation to confirm diagnosis.
  • Treatment complexity: May involve surgical intervention if complications arise.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed clinical notes and imaging reports are necessary.
  • Coding specificity: Requires accurate identification of the underlying cause of hydrops.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misclassification with other gallbladder conditions.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete clinical notes regarding symptoms and imaging findings.
  • Billing challenges: Denials may occur if documentation does not support the diagnosis.

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

Hydrops of the gallbladder can significantly impact patient health, leading to complications such as cholecystitis if not addressed promptly. The condition may affect population health by increasing healthcare utilization due to emergency visits and surgical interventions. Quality measures related to timely diagnosis and treatment of gallbladder conditions are crucial for improving patient outcomes. Epidemiologically, the prevalence of gallbladder diseases, including hydrops, is influenced by factors such as obesity, diet, and genetics, highlighting the need for preventive measures in at-risk populations.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Hydrops of the gallbladder can significantly impact patient health, leading to complications such as cholecystitis if not addressed promptly. The condition may affect population health by increasing healthcare utilization due to emergency visits and surgical interventions. Quality measures related to timely diagnosis and treatment of gallbladder conditions are crucial for improving patient outcomes. Epidemiologically, the prevalence of gallbladder diseases, including hydrops, is influenced by factors such as obesity, diet, and genetics, highlighting the need for preventive measures in at-risk populations.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include the necessity of surgical intervention if complications arise. Common denials may occur if the documentation does not adequately support the diagnosis or if there is a lack of clarity regarding the underlying cause of the hydrops. It is essential to follow coding best practices and ensure that all relevant codes are included in the billing process to avoid delays in payment.

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 K82.1?

K82.1 specifically covers hydrops of the gallbladder, which may arise from conditions such as cystic duct obstruction due to gallstones, tumors, or strictures. It does not include other gallbladder diseases like cholecystitis or cholelithiasis unless they are specifically indicated.

When should K82.1 be used instead of related codes?

K82.1 should be used when there is clear evidence of gallbladder distension due to obstruction without inflammation. If there is concurrent inflammation or infection, codes for cholecystitis (K81) should be considered.

What documentation supports K82.1?

Documentation should include clinical findings, imaging results confirming gallbladder distension, and notes on any obstructive pathology. Detailed patient history and symptomatology are also essential.