ICD-10-CM 2027
ICD-10 code for acute cholecystitis
From the official ICD-10-CM alphabetic index entry “Cholecystitis › acute (emphysematous) (gangrenous) (suppurative)”. Page updated September 29, 2026.
About coding acute cholecystitis
The ICD-10-CM code for acute cholecystitis is K81.0 (Acute cholecystitis). The official index lists 3 more specific codes, so check the documentation for details such as type, cause, site or severity before settling on K81.0.
Within K81 (cholecystitis), K81.0 is specifically for acute cholecystitis. Related codes cover chronic cholecystitis (K81.1), acute cholecystitis with chronic cholecystitis (K81.2) and unspecified (K81.9).
Use an additional code if applicable for associated gangrene of gallbladder (K82.A1), or perforation of gallbladder (K82.A2).
As a secondary diagnosis it is a CC (complication or comorbidity), which can move an inpatient stay into the "with CC" MS-DRG of its family, unless the principal diagnosis excludes it.
More specific acute cholecystitis codes (official index)
- with
- calculus, stones in
- cystic duct
- gallbladder
- choledocholithiasis
- cholelithiasis
- chronic cholecystitis K81.2 — Acute cholecystitis with chronic cholecystitis
- with gallbladder calculus K80.12 — Calculus of gallbladder with acute and chronic cholecystitis without obstruction
- with obstruction K80.13 — Calculus of gallbladder with acute and chronic cholecystitis with obstruction
Common questions about acute cholecystitis ICD-10 codes
What is the ICD-10 code for acute cholecystitis?
- K81.0 — Acute cholecystitis. More specific codes apply when the documentation supports them: K81.2, K80.12, K80.13.
Is K81.0 billable?
- Yes. K81.0 is a billable/specific ICD-10-CM code valid for FY2027 (October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2027).
Can K81.0 be used as a principal diagnosis?
- Yes. The Medicare Code Editor doesn't restrict K81.0 as a principal diagnosis.
Is K81.0 a CC or MCC?
- K81.0 is a CC (complication or comorbidity) under MS-DRG v44.0, unless excluded by the principal diagnosis.