ICD-10 Code H44.71 – Retained (nonmagnetic) (old) foreign body in anterior chamber (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H44.71 – Retained (nonmagnetic) (old) foreign body in anterior chamber
What it is
This code identifies an old or retained nonmagnetic foreign body located in the anterior chamber of the eye. Use it when the object remains inside the front chamber, not when it has been removed.
Clinical signs
Patients may have eye pain, redness, tearing, blurred vision, photophobia, or a visible intraocular foreign body. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation and imaging or ophthalmology findings.
When to use this code
Use H44.71 when documentation confirms a retained, nonmagnetic foreign body in the anterior chamber, including an old injury with persistent foreign material. It also fits follow-up encounters when the object is still present and being observed or managed. Check documentation if the note does not clearly state the chamber location.
Do not use for
Do not use this code if the foreign body has been removed or if it is in another eye structure. Do not assign it for superficial corneal foreign bodies or unspecified ocular foreign bodies.
Coding tip
Verify the term “anterior chamber” in the provider note before coding, because location drives code selection.