ICD-10 Code K25.1 – Acute gastric ulcer with perforation (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K25.1 – Acute gastric ulcer with perforation
What it is
K25.1 identifies an acute gastric ulcer that has perforated the stomach wall. Use it when the record shows a stomach ulcer with a hole or rupture, not just bleeding or uncomplicated ulcer disease.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include sudden severe upper abdominal pain, peritoneal irritation, and evidence of free air or perforation on imaging or surgery. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use K25.1 when the provider documents an acute gastric ulcer with perforation, including operative, endoscopic, or imaging confirmation. You may also use it when the note clearly links a perforated stomach ulcer to the encounter. Check documentation if the ulcer site, acuity, or complication is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for duodenal ulcers, chronic gastric ulcers, or gastric ulcers without perforation. Do not assign it if the record only says abdominal pain or suspected perforation without confirmation.
Coding tip
Match the ulcer site and complication exactly; “gastric” and “perforation” must both be documented.