Calculus of bile duct w chronic cholangitis w/o obstruction

This code signifies the presence of gallstones within the bile duct system, specifically in the context of ongoing, long-term inflammation of the bile ducts (cholangitis). Crucially, this condition is not associated with a blockage of the bile flow.

Apply this code when documentation confirms choledocholithiasis co-occurring with chronic cholangitis, and imaging or clinical findings explicitly rule out any obstruction. This is appropriate for patients experiencing recurrent episodes of cholangitis symptoms attributed to bile duct stones without evidence of acute obstruction.

• Ensure documentation clearly distinguishes between acute and chronic cholangitis.
• Verify that imaging reports or physician notes explicitly state the absence of obstruction.
• Do not use this code if obstruction is present; refer to codes in the K80.3x series that specify obstruction.