2025 ICD-10-CM code Z18.8
Other specified retained foreign body. This code is used for retained foreign bodies not elsewhere classified.
Medical necessity for using Z18.8 is established by the presence of a retained foreign body causing symptoms or posing a risk of complications. The documentation must clearly support the need for intervention or ongoing monitoring.
The provider is responsible for documenting the presence and nature of the retained foreign body, as well as any associated symptoms or complications.
In simple words: This code indicates the presence of a foreign object retained in the body, such as a glass splinter, that doesn't fall into other specific categories like retained metal or wood.
Other specified retained foreign body. 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 presents with a retained glass fragment in their hand following a window breaking.The fragment is not superficial and requires further medical attention., A patient has a retained stone fragment in their foot after stepping on a sharp rock. Imaging confirms the fragment's presence., A patient reports ongoing discomfort after a previous injury, and imaging reveals a retained piece of concrete shrapnel that was not identified initially.
Documentation should include the type of foreign body, location, date of initial incident (if known), associated symptoms, and treatment plan. Imaging reports confirming the presence of the foreign body are crucial.
** Z codes are used to describe the reason for an encounter. A corresponding procedure code should be used if a procedure is performed.The specific guidelines and regulations of individual payers should always be consulted for coding and billing purposes. As of today's date, December 1st, 2024, this information is current, but it's essential to check for updates to coding guidelines and regulations.
- Specialties:Surgery, Emergency Medicine, General Practice, Internal Medicine, other specialists as appropriate to the location of the foreign body.
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, On Campus-Outpatient Hospital, Off Campus-Outpatient Hospital, Emergency Room - Hospital, Office, other places of service as appropriate.