Which of the following is a valid ICD-10-CM code?

To understand why the selected code is considered valid in the context of ICD-10-CM coding, it’s important to look at the structure and meaning of the code itself. K35.3 refers to a specific type of appendicitis, specifically "Appendicitis, acute, with perforation." This classification is consistent with the ICD-10-CM guidelines, which utilize a combination of letters and numbers that convey not only the condition but also pertinent details such as the severity or complications associated with it.

ICD-10-CM codes are structured as follows: they begin with a letter, followed by two digits that specify the category, and then a decimal point followed by additional characters that provide more detail about the diagnosis. In this case, K35 denotes appendicitis, while the additional numbers provide specificity regarding the condition's nature or complications.

The validity of a code like K35.3 is assessed based on its adherence to ICD-10-CM conventions, ensuring that the code accurately represents a clinical diagnosis recognized by the regulatory and billing authorities. For example, the inclusion of "acute" and "with perforation" ensures that the code reflects a serious and acute condition, which has implications for treatment and billing.

Given the rigorous