Ac appendicitis w gen peritonitis,w/o abscs,unsp as to perf

This code describes an acute inflammation of the appendix that has spread to the entire abdominal cavity, causing widespread peritoneal irritation. There is no localized collection of pus (abscess) identified, and the presence or absence of a perforation of the appendix itself is not documented.

Use this code when the physician's documentation explicitly states acute appendicitis with generalized peritonitis, but does not specify if the appendix has perforated. This is often seen in cases where the extent of perforation is unclear or not definitively diagnosed during initial assessment or surgery.

• Do not use this code if documentation specifies a localized peritonitis; use a more specific code.
• If perforation is documented as present or absent, select a more precise code from the K35.2 series.
• Always review operative reports and pathology findings for definitive documentation regarding perforation and abscess formation.