Does K80.18 require prior authorization?

No, K80.18 does not require prior authorization (high confidence). Code is covered without prior authorization.

`K80.18` — Calculus of gallbladder with other cholecystitis without obstruction

ICD-10-CM

No Prior Auth Required

Code is covered without prior authorization (high confidence)

Medical records must document that the ultrasound was limited to retroperitoneal structures when billing CPT 76770/76775/76776, including images/findings demonstrating limitation to the retroperitoneum.
If the exam was expanded to include organs outside the retroperitoneum, documentation must reflect the expansion and support billing a full or limited abdominal ultrasound (CPT 76700/76705/76706).
Claims and documentation should follow the complementary Local Coverage Determination L34577 and any applicable LCD requirements.
This billing and coding guidance complements Local Coverage Determination L34434; follow LCD L34434 for clinical coverage criteria and required documentation for claims.

Retroperitoneal ultrasound (CPT 76770, 76775, 76776) is covered when the exam is limited solely to retroperitoneal structures.
A full (complete) or limited abdominal ultrasound (CPT 76700, 76705, 76706) is covered when the exam includes organs or structures outside the retroperitoneum or when primary findings involve non-retroperitoneal structures (e.g., gallbladder, liver, spleen, common bile duct).
Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is covered when it meets the reasonable and necessary requirements specified in Local Coverage Determination L33583.
Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (diagnostic or therapeutic) is covered when determined reasonable and necessary per Local Coverage Determination L35350.
EGD is covered for persistent upper abdominal distress (e.g., gastroesophageal reflux disease) that continues despite an appropriate trial of symptomatic therapy.
EGD is covered for upper abdominal distress accompanied by a short history of concerning signs or symptoms such as weight loss, anorexia, vomiting, or NSAID/other gastric irritant intake.

A57063 — Billing and Coding: Diagnostic and Therapeutic Esophagogastroduodenoscopy

J09

L33583 — Diagnostic and Therapeutic Esophagogastroduodenoscopy

J09

A57414 — Billing and Coding: Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (Diagnostic and Therapeutic)

J12

L35350 — Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (Diagnostic and Therapeutic)

J12

Ask Verity about documentation requirements, denial risks, or coverage in your state.