K81.9
✓ BillableCholecystitis, unspecified
Diseases of the digestive system (K00-K95)
❌ Excludes1
inheritedRules inherited from parent codes in the hierarchy.
- • cholecystitis with cholelithiasis (K80.-)
📋 Code Instructions
inherited- • code if applicable for associated gangrene of gallbladder (K82.A1), or perforation of gallbladder (K82.A2)
Clinical Description
ICD-10-CM code K81.9 represents cholecystitis, unspecified. This code falls under the Diseases of the digestive system (K00-K95) classification. It is a billable/specific code valid for HIPAA-covered transactions as of October 1, 2025 (FY2026). This code can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes on insurance claims.
This is a 5-character code at the 4th level of specificity. This is the most specific code available in this subcategory. Coders should note that K81.9 has 1 Excludes1 restriction(s) — codes that cannot be reported together on the same claim.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ICD-10 code K81.9?
ICD-10-CM code K81.9 is "Cholecystitis, unspecified". It belongs to the category: Diseases of the digestive system (K00-K95).
Is K81.9 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, K81.9 is a billable/specific ICD-10-CM code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.
What codes are excluded with K81.9?
K81.9 has 1 Excludes1 rule(s). These codes are mutually exclusive and cannot be coded together on the same claim.
Related Codes in K81
Other codes in the same category that may be relevant for differential coding:
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Data Source
CMS ICD-10-CM 2026 Tabular List
Updated October 1, 2025 (FY2026)