ICD-10 Coding for Acute Appendicitis(K35.2, K35.3, K35.8)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Acute Appendicitis. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Acute Appendicitis
K35-K38Primary Range
Diseases of appendix
This range includes all codes related to appendicitis, including acute, chronic, and other specified types.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| K35.2 | Acute appendicitis with generalized peritonitis | Use when documentation specifies generalized peritonitis due to appendicitis. |
|
| K35.3 | Acute appendicitis with localized peritonitis | Use when documentation specifies localized peritonitis due to appendicitis. |
|
| K35.8 | Acute appendicitis with other complications | Use when serositis is documented without peritonitis. |
|
Clinical Decision Support
Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for acute appendicitis with generalized peritonitis
Essential facts and insights about Acute Appendicitis
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for acute appendicitis
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of generalized peritonitis
Applicable To
- Generalized peritonitis due to appendicitis
Excludes
- Localized peritonitis (K35.3)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Operative findings of purulent fluid in more than one abdominal quadrant
- Imaging showing free intraperitoneal air
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrectly coding localized peritonitis as generalized
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation clearly differentiates between generalized and localized peritonitis.
K35.3 - Acute appendicitis with localized peritonitis
Use when documentation specifies localized peritonitis due to appendicitis.
Applicable To
- Localized peritonitis due to appendicitis
Excludes
- Generalized peritonitis (K35.2)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Operative note indicating inflammation confined to the right lower quadrant
Coding Notes
Verify the extent of peritonitis through operative and imaging reports.
K35.8 - Acute appendicitis with other complications
Use when serositis is documented without peritonitis.
Applicable To
- Acute appendicitis with serositis
Excludes
- Peritonitis (K35.2, K35.3)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Histopathology showing inflamed serosal surface without peritonitis
Coding Notes
Query clinician if documentation is unclear about the presence of peritonitis.
Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Acute Appendicitis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K35.2.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment decisions., Regulatory: Increases risk of audit and compliance issues., Financial: Potential for incorrect billing and reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Use structured templates for operative notes, Ensure clear communication between surgical and coding teams
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to improper DRG assignment., Compliance: May result in coding audits and compliance issues., Data Quality: Affects the accuracy of clinical data and statistics.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation specifies peritonitis if present; otherwise, use K35.8.
Impact
Inadequate documentation of peritonitis extent can lead to audit findings.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure detailed operative and imaging reports are included in the patient's record.
Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Acute Appendicitis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Acute Appendicitis
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Acute Appendicitis. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Operative Note for Appendectomy
Specialty: General SurgeryRequired Elements
- Procedure details
- Findings of peritoneal involvement
- Presence or absence of perforation
- Specimen sent for pathology
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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