Bilateral Pulmonary Embolism ICD-10-CM Codes

Read this short guide and learn about bilateral pulmonary embolism ICD codes you can use.

By Liliana Braun on Feb 29, 2024.

Fact Checked by Nate Lacson.

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Bilateral Pulmonary Embolism ICD-10-CM Codes

What bilateral pulmonary embolism ICD codes can I use?

While there are no specific  bilateral pulmonary embolism ICD codes, you can still use thhe ICD codes below for medical billing:

  1. I26.01 - Septic pulmonary embolism with acute cor pulmonale

This ICD-10 code is meant to be used on a patient confirmed to have Septic Pulmonary Embolism, a type of Pulmonary Embolism characterized by the embolization of intravascular thrombus that houses microorganisms into the lungs. In the context of this ICD code, the patient also has acute cor pulmonale, a condition characterized by the right side of the heart failing. This code is also considered to be unacceptable as a principal diagnosis.

  1. I26.02 - Saddle embolus of pulmonary artery with acute cor pulmonale

This ICD-10 code is meant to be used on a patient confirmed to have a Saddle Pulmonary Embolism. This is characterized by a massive blood clot blocking the main pulmonary artery. As with Item 1, the patient has acute cor pulmonale.

  1. I26.09 - Other pulmonary embolism with acute cor pulmonale

This ICD-10 code is meant to be used on a patient confirmed to have a Pulmonary Embolism. In the context of this ICD-10 code, this is used for other types of Pulmonary Embolism that don’t have specific ICD-10 codes. As with Item 1, the patient also has acute cor pulmonale.

  1. I26.90 - Septic pulmonary embolism without acute cor pulmonale

This is the same as Item 1, but this time, the patient doesn’t have acute cor pulmonale. It is also unacceptable as a principal diagnosis.

  1. I26.99 - Other pulmonary embolism without acute cor pulmonale

This is the same as Item 3, but this time, the patient doesn’t have acute cor pulmonale.

  1. I27.82 - Chronic pulmonary embolism

This ICD-10 code is meant to be used on a patient confirmed to have Chronic Pulmonary Embolism. This condition is characterized by a blockage of an artery that goes into the lungs due to blood clots.

Are these bilateral pulmonary embolism ICD codes billable?

Yes. All of the aforementioned pulmonary embolism-related ICD-10 codes are valid and billable.

Clinical information about pulmonary embolism:

A Pulmonary Embolism refers to a blood clot that forms in the leg and travels to the lung, obstructing blood flow within the pulmonary vessels. This blockage reduces oxygen levels in the lungs and elevates blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries.

Pulmonary Embolisms pose significant risks, potentially leading to damage in both the lungs and the heart. If left untreated, Pulmonary Embolisms can even cause death.

A person with a Pulmonary Embolism will experience the following symptoms:

  • They will feel a sharp pain in their chest. This pain can extend to the arms, shoulder, neck, and jaw.
  • Their heartbeats will become rapid
  • They will have shortness of breath
  • They will start sweating profusely and become pale
  • In some cases, they might cough bloody mucus
  • They might also feel lightheaded
  • They might also be prone to passing out

Synonyms include:

  • Acute cor pulmonale
  • Acute cor pulmonale due to septic pulmonary embolism
  • Acute pulmonary embolism
  • Cor pulmonale
  • Septic embolus of artery
  • Septic pulmonary embolism
  • Saddle embolus of pulmonary artery
  • Saddle embolus of pulmonary artery with acute cor pulmonale
  • Chronic pulmonary embolism
  • Chronic pulmonary thromboembolism
  • Chronic pulmonary thromboembolism without pulmonary hypertension
  • Pulmonary thromboembolism
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Commonly asked questions

Are there any unbillable pulmonary embolism ICD codes?

Yes, but we don’t recommend using those. Please use codes that are valid and billable.

How is Pulmonary Embolism diagnosed?

Healthcare professionals and providers will conduct blood tests, Chest X-rays, CT and pulmonary angiograms, a leg ultrasound, and/or a V/Q Scan.

How is Pulmonary Embolism treated?

The severity of a Pulmonary Embolism determines the appropriate treatment. Medication may be prescribed to reduce blood clotting. Compression stockings can improve leg blood flow, as Pulmonary Embolism originates in the leg and migrates to the lungs. Thrombolytic therapy may be recommended to dissolve blood clots. In severe cases, surgery or catheter use may be the most suitable options.

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