ICD-10 Code G97.3 – Intraoperative hemorrhage and hematoma of a nervous system organ or structure complicating a procedure (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code G97.3 – Intraoperative hemorrhage and hematoma of a nervous system organ or structure complicating a procedure
What it is
This code identifies bleeding or a hematoma that occurs during a procedure and involves a nervous system organ or structure. Use it when the complication is documented as intraoperative and procedure-related.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly, the operative note may describe unexpected bleeding, hematoma formation, or the need for hemostatic control during surgery.
When to use this code
Use G97.3 when the provider documents an intraoperative hemorrhage or hematoma affecting a nervous system organ or structure as a complication of the procedure. The record should link the event to the surgery, not to a preexisting condition. If documentation is unclear about timing or cause, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for postoperative bleeding, routine surgical blood loss, or hemorrhage unrelated to a procedure. Do not assign it when the documentation does not specify a nervous system structure.
Coding tip
Code only when the operative report clearly states the complication and its intraoperative timing.