Right upper quadrant abdominal rigidity

This code signifies the presence of involuntary muscle contraction and stiffness in the upper right region of the abdomen upon palpation. It indicates an acute or chronic underlying inflammatory or irritative process affecting organs such as the liver, gallbladder, or duodenum.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states "right upper quadrant rigidity" or "RUQ rigidity" as a physical exam finding. It is appropriate for patients presenting with acute abdominal pain where this specific finding is noted, often pointing towards conditions like cholecystitis or hepatitis.

• Do not code rigidity if only tenderness or guarding is documented; true rigidity implies involuntary muscle spasm.
• Always sequence this code after the definitive diagnosis if known (e.g., acute cholecystitis).
• Ensure the documentation specifies "right upper quadrant" to differentiate from generalized or other quadrant rigidity.