ICD-10 Coding for Perforated Appendicitis(K35.33, K35.32, K35.2XX)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Perforated Appendicitis. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Perforated Appendicitis
K35-K38Primary Range
Diseases of appendix
This range includes all codes related to appendicitis, including perforated and non-perforated forms.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| K35.33 | Acute appendicitis with perforation, localized peritonitis, and abscess | Use when documentation specifies perforation, localized peritonitis, and abscess. |
|
| K35.32 | Acute appendicitis with perforation and localized peritonitis, without abscess | Use when documentation specifies perforation and localized peritonitis without abscess. |
|
| K35.2XX | Acute appendicitis with generalized peritonitis | Use when documentation specifies generalized 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 perforated appendicitis
Essential facts and insights about Perforated Appendicitis
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for perforated appendicitis
Decision Criteria
documentation Criteria
- Documentation must specify perforation, localized peritonitis, and abscess.
Applicable To
- Perforated appendicitis with localized peritonitis and abscess
Excludes
- Generalized peritonitis without appendicitis
Clinical Validation Requirements
- CT scan showing appendiceal wall defect and abscess
- Intraoperative findings of localized purulent fluid
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification if abscess is not documented
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies abscess presence for accurate coding.
K35.32 - Acute appendicitis with perforation and localized peritonitis, without abscess
Use when documentation specifies perforation and localized peritonitis without abscess.
Applicable To
- Perforated appendicitis with localized peritonitis, no abscess
Excludes
- Generalized peritonitis without appendicitis
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Intraoperative findings of perforation and localized inflammation
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation specifies absence of abscess.
K35.2XX - Acute appendicitis with generalized peritonitis
Use when documentation specifies generalized peritonitis.
Applicable To
- Appendicitis with diffuse peritoneal involvement
Excludes
- Localized peritonitis
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Operative note indicating purulent fluid throughout abdomen
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation specifies generalized peritonitis.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Laparoscopic converted to open procedure
Z53.31Differential 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 Perforated Appendicitis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K35.33.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to incorrect clinical interpretation, Regulatory: Potential non-compliance with coding standards, Financial: Incorrect reimbursement due to misclassification
Mitigation Strategy
Educate clinicians on importance of specifying peritonitis, Implement documentation audits
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to incorrect DRG assignment and reimbursement, Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines, Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation
Mitigation Strategy
Query for clarification on peritonitis type and abscess presence.
Impact
Lack of specificity in documenting peritonitis type can lead to audit issues.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure detailed operative notes and educate clinicians on documentation requirements.
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 Perforated Appendicitis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Perforated Appendicitis
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Perforated Appendicitis. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Operative note for perforated appendicitis
Specialty: General SurgeryRequired Elements
- Post-operative diagnosis
- Procedure details
- Intraoperative findings
- Pathology results
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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