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ICD-10 Coding for Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy(K80.20)

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

Also known as:

Gallbladder Removal SurgeryLap Chole

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

K80-K87Primary Range

Diseases of gallbladder, biliary tract, and pancreas

This range includes conditions like cholelithiasis and cholecystitis, which are common indications for laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for laparoscopic cholecystectomy

Essential facts and insights about Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

The ICD-10 code for laparoscopic cholecystectomy is K80.20 for gallstones without inflammation.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for laparoscopic cholecystectomy

Calculus of gallbladder without cholecystitis
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Gallstones present without inflammation

Applicable To

  • Cholelithiasis without inflammation

Excludes

  • Acute cholecystitis with calculus (K80.10)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Imaging showing gallstones
  • Absence of inflammatory markers

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification if inflammation is present

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies absence of inflammation.

Ancillary Codes

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

Laparoscopic surgical procedure converted to open procedure

Z53.31
Use if the procedure starts laparoscopically and converts to open.

Differential Codes

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

Calculus of gallbladder with acute cholecystitis

K80.10
Presence of inflammatory markers and symptoms like fever and leukocytosis.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K80.20.

Impact

Clinical: Increased risk of bile duct injury., Regulatory: Non-compliance with surgical safety standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims due to insufficient documentation.

Mitigation Strategy

Use standardized operative note templates., Train staff on the importance of CVS documentation.

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to lower reimbursement rates., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate procedural data.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure to include the laparoscopic approach code (Y75) in ICD-10-PCS.

Impact

Inadequate documentation of CBD exploration can lead to audit issues.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure detailed operative notes and include intraoperative images.

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 Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

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

Standard Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

Specialty: General Surgery

Required Elements

  • Indications
  • Consent
  • Intraoperative findings
  • Critical View of Safety
  • Specimen handling

Example Documentation

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy performed for symptomatic cholelithiasis. CVS achieved. Gallbladder removed via umbilical port.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Gallbladder removed laparoscopically.
Good Documentation Example
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy via 4-port technique. CVS achieved with dissection of Calot’s triangle. Gallbladder extracted using Endo Catch™ bag.
Explanation
The good example provides detailed procedural steps and confirms CVS, supporting accurate coding.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy? Ask your questions below.

Ask about any ICD-10 CM code, or paste a medical note

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