ICD-10-CM 2027
ICD-10 code for appendix gangrene
From the official ICD-10-CM alphabetic index entry “Gangrene, gangrenous (connective tissue) (dropsical) (dry) (moist) (skin) (ulcer) › appendix”. Page updated September 29, 2026.
About coding appendix gangrene
The ICD-10-CM code for appendix gangrene is K35.80 (Unspecified acute appendicitis). The official index lists 1 more specific code, so check the documentation for details such as type, cause, site or severity before settling on K35.80.
Within K35.8, choose K35.80 (Unspecified acute appendicitis) only when documentation doesn't support a more specific option: other acute appendicitis (K35.89).
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.
In MS-DRG v44.0, it is part of the grouping logic for DRG 393 (Other Digestive System Diagnoses with MCC, relative weight 1.5881), DRG 394 (Other Digestive System Diagnoses with CC, relative weight 0.9228) and DRG 395 (Other Digestive System Diagnoses without CC/MCC, relative weight 0.6382), in MDC 06 (Diseases and Disorders of the Digestive System), as a principal or secondary diagnosis. The DRG a claim lands in depends on the principal diagnosis, procedures and any CC/MCC secondary diagnoses.
More specific appendix gangrene codes (official index)
- with
- peritonitis, localized K35.31 — Acute appendicitis with localized peritonitis and gangrene, without perforation
Common questions about appendix gangrene ICD-10 codes
What is the ICD-10 code for appendix gangrene?
- K35.80 — Unspecified acute appendicitis. More specific codes apply when the documentation supports them: K35.31.
Is K35.80 billable?
- Yes. K35.80 is a billable/specific ICD-10-CM code valid for FY2027 (October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2027).
Can K35.80 be used as a principal diagnosis?
- Yes. The Medicare Code Editor doesn't restrict K35.80 as a principal diagnosis.
Is K35.80 a CC or MCC?
- K35.80 is a CC (complication or comorbidity) under MS-DRG v44.0, unless excluded by the principal diagnosis.