2025 ICD-10-CM code Z18.0
Retained radioactive fragments.This code represents the presence of radioactive fragments retained in the body.
Medical necessity for the evaluation and management of a retained radioactive fragment is based on the potential health risks associated with ionizing radiation. These risks depend on the type and amount of radioactive material, the location of the fragment in the body, and the individual's overall health status. Medical necessity should be documented based on the specific clinical circumstances and potential complications.
Clinicians should document the type of radioactive fragment, the location, date of incident, and any associated symptoms or complications. This information is crucial for appropriate management and follow-up.
- Factors influencing health status and contact with health services (Z00-Z99)
- Z18 - Retained foreign body fragments
In simple words: This code indicates the presence of radioactive material left inside the body, typically from a medical procedure or accident.
Retained radioactive fragments. Includes: embedded fragment (status), embedded splinter (status), retained foreign body status.Excludes1: artificial joint prosthesis status (Z96.6-), foreign body accidentally left during a procedure (T81.5-), foreign body entering through orifice (T15-T19), in situ cardiac device (Z95.-), organ or tissue replaced by means other than transplant (Z96.-, Z97.-), organ or tissue replaced by transplant (Z94.-), personal history of retained foreign body fully removed (Z87.821), superficial foreign body (non-embedded splinter) - code to superficial foreign body, by site.
Example 1: A patient underwent brachytherapy for prostate cancer. Post-procedure imaging confirms small radioactive seeds retained within the prostate gland, coded as Z18.0., A worker at a nuclear power plant was exposed to radioactive material. After decontamination, trace amounts of radioactive particles were found embedded in their skin, coded as Z18.0., A patient had a previous industrial accident where a radioactive fragment became lodged in their hand. It was not removed at the time, and they are now experiencing chronic pain.The retained fragment is coded as Z18.0.
Documentation should include details about the nature of the radioactive fragment, the circumstances of its retention, the location of the fragment within the body, and any related signs or symptoms. Relevant imaging or laboratory results confirming the presence and nature of the fragment should also be included. If the fragment is related to a prior accident or medical procedure, the related documentation should be referenced.
** For aftercare related to the retained foreign body, use Z98.89, Other specified postprocedural states.If the retained fragment is related to a prior accident or medical procedure, the related documentation should be referenced.
- Specialties:Nuclear medicine, radiology, oncology, occupational medicine, surgery
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, On Campus-Outpatient Hospital, Off Campus-Outpatient Hospital,Office, Independent Clinic,Military Treatment Facility