Gastroenterology Coding:
Know How to Code a Ruptured Appendix With Open Conversion
Published on Mon Sep 29, 2025
Question: During a laparoscopic appendectomy for a patient presenting with classic signs of appendicitis (including sudden periumbilical pain that localized to the right lower quadrant and nausea), the surgeon discovered a ruptured appendix with widespread inflammation in the abdominal cavity. Due to these findings, the surgeon converted the procedure to an open appendectomy. The operative note indicates that debridement and [...]