Calculus of bile duct w acute and chronic cholangitis w obst

This code signifies the presence of gallstones (calculi) within the bile duct, concurrently causing both acute and chronic inflammation of the bile ducts (cholangitis), and resulting in an obstruction of bile flow. This represents a complex and often severe form of biliary tract disease requiring prompt medical intervention.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates choledocholithiasis (bile duct stones) along with evidence of both acute and chronic cholangitis, and an associated obstruction. Supporting documentation would include imaging reports (e.g., ultrasound, MRCP, ERCP) confirming stones and obstruction, and clinical notes detailing symptoms and lab findings consistent with acute and chronic inflammation.

• Ensure all three components – calculus, acute/chronic cholangitis, and obstruction – are explicitly documented.
• Do not use if only acute or only chronic cholangitis is present; specific codes exist for those scenarios.
• Sequence this code as the primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter, especially for interventions like ERCP or cholecystectomy.