ICD-10 Code G97.61 – Postprocedural hematoma of a nervous system organ or structure following a nervous system procedure (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code G97.61 – Postprocedural hematoma of a nervous system organ or structure following a nervous system procedure
What it is
This code identifies a hematoma that develops after a procedure on a nervous system organ or structure. Use it when the bleeding complication is documented as postprocedural and linked to the nervous system procedure.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly, the record may note a postoperative collection of blood with pain, swelling, neurologic change, or mass effect at the operative site.
When to use this code
Use G97.61 when the provider documents a hematoma as a complication of a nervous system procedure, such as after neurosurgery or spinal surgery. The chart should clearly connect the hematoma to the procedure, not to trauma or an unrelated bleeding disorder.
If the site, timing, or causal relationship is unclear, check documentation before coding. Code the complication only when the provider identifies it as postprocedural.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for traumatic hematomas, spontaneous intracranial bleeding, or hematomas unrelated to a procedure. Check documentation if the bleeding is described only as a postoperative finding without a stated complication.
Coding tip
Confirm that the operative note or discharge summary explicitly states postprocedural hematoma and links it to the nervous system procedure.