ICD-10 Code K27.2 – Acute Peptic Ulcer, Site Unspecified, with Both Hemorrhage and Perforation (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K27.2 – Acute peptic ulcer, site unspecified, with both hemorrhage and perforation
What it is
This code identifies an acute peptic ulcer at an unspecified site that is both bleeding and perforated. Use it when the record confirms a peptic ulcer complication but does not name the exact location.
Clinical signs
Clinical features may include upper gastrointestinal bleeding and signs of perforation, such as sudden severe abdominal pain or peritoneal irritation. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use K27.2 when the provider documents an acute peptic ulcer with both hemorrhage and perforation, and the site is not specified. It may be supported by operative, endoscopic, or imaging findings if the note clearly links both complications to the ulcer. If the ulcer site is documented, code the more specific site code instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for chronic ulcers, ulcers without hemorrhage or perforation, or peptic ulcers with only one of those complications. Check documentation if the site is specified or if the condition is not clearly acute.
Coding tip
Verify that both hemorrhage and perforation are documented together before assigning K27.2.