ICD-10 Code D78.81 – Other intraoperative complications of the spleen (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code D78.81 – Other intraoperative complications of the spleen
What it is
D78.81 identifies an unexpected complication involving the spleen that occurs during surgery. Use it when the record specifically documents an intraoperative splenic complication not captured by a more specific code.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. The operative note may describe splenic injury, bleeding, or another complication recognized during the procedure.
When to use this code
Use this code when the surgeon documents a splenic complication arising during an operation and no more specific intraoperative splenic code applies. It is appropriate for coding the complication itself, not the original reason for surgery. Check documentation for laterality, severity, or additional operative details if reported.
Do not use for
Do not use it for postoperative splenic complications or for routine splenic findings noted before surgery. If the record does not clearly identify an intraoperative splenic complication, check documentation.
Coding tip
Code the complication only when the operative report clearly links it to the surgery.