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ICD-10 Coding for Biliary Stenosis(K83.1, T85.72)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Biliary Stenosis. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Bile Duct StrictureBiliary Stricture

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Biliary Stenosis

K80-K87Primary Range

Diseases of the gallbladder, biliary tract, and pancreas

This range includes codes for conditions affecting the biliary tract, including biliary stenosis.

Complications of surgical and medical care, not elsewhere classified

This range includes codes for post-procedural complications such as biliary strictures following surgery.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
K83.1Obstruction of bile ductUse when there is documented obstruction or narrowing of the bile duct.
  • MRCP showing >75% narrowing
  • Elevated ALP and bilirubin levels
T85.72Stricture of bile duct, postproceduralUse for strictures occurring after a surgical procedure.
  • History of recent biliary surgery
  • Imaging confirming stricture

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 biliary stenosis

Essential facts and insights about Biliary Stenosis

The ICD-10 code for biliary stenosis is K83.1, which covers obstruction of the bile duct.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for biliary stenosis

Obstruction of bile duct
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Documented imaging showing obstruction

documentation Criteria

  • Detailed description of the stricture's location and severity

Applicable To

  • Biliary stenosis
  • Bile duct stricture

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • MRCP showing >75% narrowing
  • Elevated ALP and bilirubin levels

Code-Specific Risks

  • Ensure imaging supports the diagnosis
  • Avoid unspecified codes when specific ones are available

Coding Notes

  • Ensure that the documentation specifies the location and severity of the stenosis.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Post-transplant status

Z98.89
Use when documenting post-transplant complications.

Liver transplant status

Z94.4
Use when documenting post-transplant complications.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Cholangitis

K83.0
Presence of infection and inflammation in the bile duct.

Choledocholithiasis

K80.3-
Presence of stones in the bile duct.

Obstruction of bile duct

K83.1
Use when obstruction is not related to a recent procedure.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Biliary Stenosis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K83.1.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment, Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards, Financial: Potential for denied claims

Mitigation Strategy

Always document the underlying cause, Link the stricture to any recent procedures

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to reduced reimbursement, Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines, Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of clinical data

Mitigation Strategy

Use specific codes like K83.1 when documentation supports it

Impact

Failure to provide detailed imaging reports may lead to audit issues.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure all imaging findings are thoroughly documented.

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 Biliary Stenosis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Biliary Stenosis

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Biliary Stenosis. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Post-transplant biliary stricture

Specialty: Gastroenterology

Required Elements

  • Imaging findings
  • Laboratory results
  • Surgical history

Example Documentation

Patient presents with jaundice. MRCP shows 85% stenosis of the CBD. ALP is elevated. History of liver transplant 6 months ago.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Biliary stricture noted.
Good Documentation Example
MRCP demonstrates 8mm focal narrowing (85% stenosis) of mid-CBD with upstream dilation to 12mm. ALP 385 U/L, direct bilirubin 2.8 mg/dL. Patient s/p liver transplant 6 months prior.
Explanation
The good example provides specific imaging and lab details, linking the condition to the patient's surgical history.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Biliary Stenosis? Ask your questions below.

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