Chronic duodenal ulcer without hemorrhage or perforation

This code signifies a long-standing ulceration in the duodenum, the first part of the small intestine, that has not resulted in bleeding or a complete breach of the intestinal wall. It indicates a persistent mucosal defect that extends into the muscularis mucosae or deeper.

Apply this code when documentation confirms a duodenal ulcer that has been present for an extended period, typically weeks or months, and explicitly states the absence of acute hemorrhage or perforation. Supporting documentation includes endoscopy reports, physician notes detailing chronic symptoms, and imaging studies.

• Ensure the documentation clearly specifies "chronic" and explicitly rules out hemorrhage and perforation.
• Do not use this code if the ulcer is described as acute or if there is any mention of bleeding or perforation, even if resolved.
• Consider sequencing this code after any underlying cause of the ulcer, such as Helicobacter pylori infection (B96.81) or long-term NSAID use (T39.31-).