ICD-10 Code H44.649 – Retained (old) magnetic foreign body in posterior wall of globe, unspecified eye (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H44.649 – Retained (old) magnetic foreign body in posterior wall of globe, unspecified eye
What it is
This code identifies an old, retained magnetic foreign body embedded in the posterior wall of the eye globe when the affected eye is not specified. It indicates a chronic residual ocular foreign body, not a recent injury.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly, records note a known prior penetrating eye injury with a retained metallic or magnetic fragment in the posterior globe wall, often confirmed by eye exam or imaging.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents a retained, old magnetic foreign body in the posterior wall of the globe and does not specify right or left eye. It fits follow-up care, historical problem lists, or ongoing monitoring of a chronic retained fragment. Check documentation if the note describes a current open wound or acute foreign body injury instead.
Do not use for
Do not use it for a fresh eye foreign body, corneal foreign body, or a nonmagnetic retained object. If the documentation names the right or left eye, use the specified code instead.
Coding tip
Confirm both “old” and “retained magnetic foreign body” are documented before assigning H44.649.