K81 – Cholecystitis

ICD-10-CM 2027 diagnosis code · Disorders of gallbladder, biliary tract and pancreas

Non-billable header

ICD-10-CM code K81
Code
K81 (claims format: K81)
Description
Cholecystitis
Billable
No – use a more specific code below
Valid for
Dates of service October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2027 (FY2027)
Chapter
11. Diseases of the digestive system (K00-K95)
Block
K80-K87 Disorders of gallbladder, biliary tract and pancreas

Billable codes under K81

K81 is a header code and cannot be used on claims. Choose the most specific code:

Notes for K81

Excludes1 (not coded here):
  • cholecystitis with cholelithiasis (K80.-)
Use additional code:
  • code if applicable for associated gangrene of gallbladder (K82.A1), or perforation of gallbladder (K82.A2)

Frequently asked questions

What is ICD-10 code K81?

K81 is the ICD-10-CM code for cholecystitis, in the block K80-K87 (Disorders of gallbladder, biliary tract and pancreas).

Is K81 a billable code?

No. K81 is a header code with more specific child codes; report one of the billable codes listed above.

Source: CDC/NCHS ICD-10-CM FY2027 code files, tabular list and index. Reference only – code assignment must follow the official ICD-10-CM guidelines and documentation in the medical record.