ICD-10 Code I31.4 – Cardiac tamponade (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code I31.4 – Cardiac tamponade
What it is
Cardiac tamponade is compression of the heart from fluid or blood in the pericardial sac. This limits filling and can quickly reduce cardiac output.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common findings include hypotension, jugular venous distention, muffled heart sounds, and signs of impaired circulation or shock.
When to use this code
Use I31.4 when the record clearly documents cardiac tamponade, including tamponade related to pericardial effusion, hemopericardium, trauma, procedures, or malignancy. Code it when the provider identifies tamponade as the diagnosis or complication. Check documentation if the note only mentions pericardial effusion without tamponade.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for pericardial effusion alone, pericarditis without tamponade, or nonspecific chest symptoms. If tamponade is not documented, check documentation.
Coding tip
Assign I31.4 only when tamponade is explicitly stated; if the cause is documented, code that condition separately when appropriate.