ICD-10 Code G97.4 – Accidental puncture and laceration of a nervous system organ or structure during a procedure (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code G97.4 – Accidental puncture and laceration of a nervous system organ or structure during a procedure
What it is
This code identifies an unintentional puncture or laceration of a nervous system organ or structure that occurs during a procedure. Use it when the injury is documented as a procedural complication, not as the intended result of surgery.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Findings may include new neurologic deficit, pain, bleeding, cerebrospinal fluid leak, or other procedure-related evidence of injury to nervous tissue.
When to use this code
Use G97.4 when the record clearly states that a nervous system structure was accidentally punctured or cut during an operative or diagnostic procedure. The documentation should link the injury to the procedure and identify it as accidental. If the note only mentions postoperative neurologic symptoms without a documented puncture or laceration, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for planned surgical removal, routine access, or non-accidental injury. It also should not be used when the chart does not specify a puncture or laceration of a nervous system organ or structure.
Coding tip
Assign the code only when the provider documents the accidental injury and its procedural cause; otherwise, query for clarification.