K27.2

HCC Category Mapping

What This Code Means

A sudden peptic ulcer at an unspecified location that is both actively bleeding and has perforated.

Coding Tips

• •This represents a severe complication with both hemorrhage and perforation present
• •Do not use additional codes for hemorrhage or perforation as they are included in this code

Clinical Significance

Acute peptic ulcer of unspecified site with both hemorrhage and perforation represents the most severe unspecified peptic ulcer complication, with concurrent active bleeding and wall penetration. This dual complication creates a complex clinical emergency. The unspecified site should prompt a query, as endoscopic or surgical findings typically reveal the location.

Documentation Requirements

• ✓Provider documentation of acute peptic ulcer with BOTH hemorrhage AND perforation
• ✓Evidence of active hemorrhage (hematemesis, melena, hemodynamic instability)
• ✓Evidence of perforation (free air, peritoneal signs, operative findings)
• ✓Acuity confirmed as acute
• ✓Documentation that the site remains unspecified despite clinical evaluation
• ✓Intervention details for both hemorrhage control and perforation repair

Commonly Confused Codes