ICD-10 Code D78.12 – Accidental puncture and laceration of the spleen during other procedure (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code D78.12 – Accidental puncture and laceration of the spleen during other procedure
What it is
This code identifies an unintended puncture or tear of the spleen that occurs during a procedure. Use it when the documentation shows the splenic injury was caused by the procedure, not by trauma.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical findings may include abdominal pain, bleeding, or evidence of splenic injury noted during or after the procedure.
When to use this code
Use D78.12 when the record clearly states the spleen was accidentally punctured or lacerated during another procedure. Confirm that the injury is a procedural complication and that the spleen is the documented organ involved. If the note only says “complication” without organ detail, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for traumatic splenic injury from an external accident or for intentional splenic surgery. It is also not appropriate when the documentation names a different organ or does not confirm an accidental procedural injury.
Coding tip
Code the complication only when the operative or progress note explicitly links the splenic injury to the procedure.