ICD-10 Code K26.6 – Chronic or unspecified duodenal ulcer with both hemorrhage and perforation (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K26.6 – Chronic or unspecified duodenal ulcer with both hemorrhage and perforation
What it is
K26.6 identifies a duodenal ulcer that is chronic or not further specified, and it has both bleeding and a perforation. Use it when the record clearly documents both complications.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical findings may include evidence of upper gastrointestinal bleeding and signs of perforation, such as acute abdominal pain or peritoneal irritation.
When to use this code
Use K26.6 when the provider documents a chronic or unspecified duodenal ulcer with both hemorrhage and perforation. The note should support both complications, not just one.
Choose this code when the ulcer is in the duodenum and the record does not identify a more specific acute, chronic, or site-related option. Check documentation if the type is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use K26.6 if the record shows hemorrhage only, perforation only, or a gastric ulcer instead of a duodenal ulcer. Check documentation when the site or complication is uncertain.
Coding tip
Verify that both hemorrhage and perforation are explicitly documented before assigning K26.6.