ICD-10 Code I26.02 – Saddle embolus of pulmonary artery with acute cor pulmonale (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code I26.02 – Saddle embolus of pulmonary artery with acute cor pulmonale
What it is
This code identifies a saddle pulmonary embolus that blocks the main pulmonary artery bifurcation and causes acute cor pulmonale. Use it when the record clearly links the embolus to acute right-sided heart strain or failure.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, tachycardia, hypoxemia, and evidence of acute right ventricular strain. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use I26.02 when the provider documents a saddle embolus of the pulmonary artery and acute cor pulmonale in the same episode. The record should support both the embolic location and the acute cardiac effect. If cor pulmonale is not documented, check documentation before coding.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for pulmonary embolism without acute cor pulmonale, or for chronic cor pulmonale. Also avoid it when the embolus location is not specified as saddle; check documentation.
Coding tip
Confirm that both “saddle embolus” and “acute cor pulmonale” appear in the provider’s final assessment or discharge diagnosis.