ICD-10 Code G97.48 – Accidental puncture and laceration of other nervous system organ or structure during a nervous system procedure (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code G97.48 – Accidental puncture and laceration of other nervous system organ or structure during a nervous system procedure
What it is
This code identifies an accidental puncture or laceration involving another nervous system organ or structure that occurs during a nervous system procedure. Use it when the documentation clearly links the injury to the procedure.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Findings may include procedure-related bleeding, new neurologic deficit, pain, or imaging evidence of injury after the intervention.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents an unintended puncture or tear of a nervous system structure as a complication of a procedure. It applies when the injury is not better described by a more specific code and the operative note or complication note supports the event.
Do not use for
Do not use it for intentional surgical removal, routine operative findings, or injuries unrelated to a procedure. Check documentation if the site, timing, or cause of the injury is unclear.
Coding tip
Link the code to the documented procedure complication and verify that the injury was accidental, not expected, and not coded more specifically elsewhere.