Calculus of gallbladder w acute cholecystitis w obstruction

This code signifies the presence of gallstones within the gallbladder, accompanied by acute inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis) and a blockage of the bile duct system. The obstruction is typically caused by a gallstone.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates cholelithiasis (gallstones) in conjunction with acute cholecystitis and evidence of obstruction, such as an impacted stone in the cystic duct or common bile duct. This is commonly seen in patients presenting with severe right upper quadrant pain, fever, and elevated inflammatory markers.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "acute" cholecystitis and "obstruction" in addition to the presence of gallstones.
• Do not use this code if the cholecystitis is chronic or if there is no mention of obstruction.
• Consider sequencing this code as the primary diagnosis when it is the main reason for the encounter, especially for surgical interventions like cholecystectomy.