American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) Certification Practice Exam

Which of the following is the correct ICD-9-CM code for a laparoscopic cholecystectomy?

1. 51.21

2. 51.22, 54.21

3. 51.23, 54.21

4. 51.23

The correct answer is: 51.23

The appropriate ICD-9-CM code for a laparoscopic cholecystectomy is designated as 51.23. This code specifically identifies the procedure of performing a cholecystectomy using laparoscopic techniques, distinguishing it from other surgical methods, such as open surgery. Codes in ICD-9-CM are structured to represent specific medical procedures, and the distinction is crucial in seizing accurate data for reporting and reimbursement purposes. While other codes, such as 51.21 (open cholecystectomy) and those that might reflect additional procedures (e.g., 54.21 for sphincterotomy), exist, they do not specifically represent the laparoscopic approach taken in this case. Thus, selecting 51.23 accurately reflects the procedure type, ensuring clarity in clinical documentation and healthcare analytics.