2025 ICD-10-CM code K35.2
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Deletion Date: N/A Diseases of the appendix - Acute appendicitis Diseases of the digestive system Feed
Acute appendicitis with generalized peritonitis.
Modifiers may be applicable depending on the circumstances of the procedure, such as the use of anesthesia or the location where the appendectomy takes place.Refer to current modifier guidelines for specific applications.
Medical necessity for K35.2 is established by the presence of clinical symptoms and findings consistent with acute appendicitis complicated by generalized peritonitis.Imaging studies confirming the diagnosis and severity of the infection.Treatment requires emergent surgical intervention (appendectomy) to prevent potentially fatal complications of sepsis and multiple organ failure.Postoperative care and management of complications are medically necessary for patient recovery and survival.
Diagnosis and treatment of acute appendicitis and generalized peritonitis, including surgical intervention (appendectomy), fluid resuscitation, broad-spectrum antibiotic administration, and intensive care management.
In simple words: This code means a serious infection of the appendix has spread to the entire abdomen. The appendix has burst or broken open causing a widespread infection.
This code signifies acute appendicitis complicated by the spread of infection throughout the abdominal cavity (generalized peritonitis).It indicates the inflammation of the appendix has ruptured or perforated, leading to a severe systemic infection requiring immediate medical intervention.
Example 1: A 25-year-old female presents to the emergency department with severe right lower quadrant abdominal pain, fever, and rebound tenderness.Diagnosis is acute appendicitis with generalized peritonitis confirmed by CT scan.She undergoes an emergent appendectomy and receives intravenous antibiotics and fluids., A 16-year-old male is admitted with symptoms consistent with a ruptured appendix. He is febrile, tachycardic, and hypotensive, with significant abdominal distension and guarding.CT scan reveals generalized peritonitis. He undergoes emergent appendectomy and receives aggressive fluid resuscitation and broad-spectrum antibiotics in the intensive care unit., A 40-year-old male with a history of Crohn's disease presents with worsening right lower quadrant abdominal pain and fever.A CT scan shows an inflamed appendix and evidence of generalized peritonitis.He undergoes an emergent appendectomy, and his postoperative course is complicated by sepsis requiring prolonged antibiotic therapy and ICU admission.
Complete history and physical examination documenting symptoms, vital signs, and abdominal findings. Results of imaging studies (CT scan, ultrasound) confirming the diagnosis and extent of peritonitis. Operative report detailing the appendectomy and intraoperative findings. Laboratory results including complete blood count, inflammatory markers (CRP, WBC), and blood cultures.Postoperative progress notes documenting recovery, complications, and antibiotic regimen.
** The severity of generalized peritonitis can range from mild to life-threatening.Accurate documentation is crucial for appropriate code assignment and reimbursement.Always consult current coding guidelines and payer-specific rules for the most up-to-date information.
- Payment Status: Active
- Modifier TC rule: This would depend on the specific circumstances of the case and whether the services are provided by multiple physicians. Refer to the relevant guidelines regarding modifier TC application.
- Specialties:General Surgery, Emergency Medicine
- Place of Service:Emergency Room - Hospital, Inpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center