Calculus of bile duct w chronic cholangitis with obstruction

This code signifies the presence of gallstones within the bile ducts, accompanied by persistent inflammation of the bile ducts (cholangitis) and a blockage of the bile flow. This condition often leads to symptoms such as jaundice, abdominal pain, and fever due to the obstruction and infection.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates choledocholithiasis (calculus in the common bile duct) along with chronic inflammation of the bile ducts and evidence of obstruction, such as dilated ducts or elevated bilirubin. This code is appropriate for patients presenting with long-standing biliary obstruction and inflammation caused by gallstones.

• Ensure documentation specifies "chronic" cholangitis; otherwise, consider codes for acute cholangitis.
• Verify the presence of obstruction; if no obstruction is documented, a different code for calculus of bile duct with chronic cholangitis without obstruction would be more appropriate.
• Sequence this code as the primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter, followed by any associated complications or symptoms.