ICD-10 Coding for Obstructive Jaundice(K83.0, C24.0)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Obstructive Jaundice. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Obstructive Jaundice
K80-K83Primary Range
Diseases of gallbladder, biliary tract, and pancreas
This range includes codes for conditions affecting the biliary tract, including obstructive jaundice.
Malignant neoplasms of biliary tract and pancreas
This range includes codes for malignant causes of obstructive jaundice.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| K83.0 | Obstruction of bile duct | Use when imaging confirms mechanical blockage of the bile duct. |
|
| C24.0 | Malignant neoplasm of extrahepatic bile duct | Use when malignancy is confirmed as the cause of bile duct obstruction. |
|
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 obstructive jaundice
Essential facts and insights about Obstructive Jaundice
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for obstructive jaundice
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Imaging shows bile duct obstruction
documentation Criteria
- Direct bilirubin >50% of total
Applicable To
- Biliary obstruction
- Cholestasis due to obstruction
Excludes
- Obstruction due to gallstones (K80.20)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Imaging confirmation of obstruction
- Elevated alkaline phosphatase
- Direct bilirubin >50% of total bilirubin
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrect use without imaging confirmation
- Misclassification as unspecified jaundice
Coding Notes
- Ensure imaging evidence is documented to support the use of this code.
C24.0 - Malignant neoplasm of extrahepatic bile duct
Use when malignancy is confirmed as the cause of bile duct obstruction.
Applicable To
- Cholangiocarcinoma
Excludes
- Benign neoplasm of bile duct (D13.4)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Histological confirmation of malignancy
- Elevated CA19-9
- Imaging showing stricture
Coding Notes
Ensure malignancy is confirmed through biopsy or imaging.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
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 Obstructive Jaundice to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K83.0.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to misdiagnosis, Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards, Financial: Potential loss of reimbursement
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure imaging reports are included in documentation, Train staff on documentation requirements
Impact
Reimbursement: Potential underpayment due to unspecified coding, Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines, Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation
Mitigation Strategy
Upgrade to K83.0 when imaging confirms mechanical blockage
Impact
Failure to sequence malignancy codes before obstruction codes
Mitigation Strategy
Regular training on coding guidelines and updates
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 Obstructive Jaundice, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Obstructive Jaundice
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Obstructive Jaundice. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Malignant Obstruction
Specialty: GastroenterologyRequired Elements
- Subjective symptoms
- Objective findings
- Assessment
- Plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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