ICD-10 Code K68.3 – Retroperitoneal hematoma (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K68.3 – Retroperitoneal hematoma
What it is
K68.3 identifies a collection of blood in the retroperitoneal space, the area behind the abdominal lining. It is used when documentation specifically states retroperitoneal hematoma.
Clinical signs
Findings may include abdominal, flank, or back pain, tenderness, or signs of internal bleeding. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use K68.3 when the provider documents a retroperitoneal hematoma as a diagnosis, complication, or imaging-confirmed finding. Code it when the record clearly identifies bleeding in the retroperitoneal space, such as after trauma, surgery, or an invasive procedure. If the site or cause is unclear, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for other abdominal, pelvic, or intraperitoneal bleeding that is not retroperitoneal. If the note only says “hematoma” without location, check documentation.
Coding tip
Verify that the hematoma is documented as retroperitoneal, not just abdominal or postoperative, before assigning K68.3.