ICD-10 Code I26.03 – Cement embolism of pulmonary artery with acute cor pulmonale (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code I26.03 – Cement embolism of pulmonary artery with acute cor pulmonale
What it is
This code identifies a cement embolus lodged in the pulmonary artery that has caused acute cor pulmonale. Use it when the record documents pulmonary vascular obstruction from cement material with sudden right heart strain.
Clinical signs
Findings may include acute shortness of breath, chest discomfort, hypoxemia, or signs of right ventricular strain. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for imaging or procedural evidence of cement embolization.
When to use this code
Use I26.03 when the provider documents cement embolism of the pulmonary artery and specifically links it to acute cor pulmonale. This is appropriate after procedures involving bone cement, such as vertebral augmentation, when cement migrates to the pulmonary circulation. If the record does not specify acute cor pulmonale, check documentation before coding.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for pulmonary embolism from thrombus, air, fat, or other non-cement material. Do not assign it when cement embolism is documented without acute cor pulmonale unless another code is specified.
Coding tip
Code both the cement embolism and the acute cor pulmonale only when the provider clearly documents the causal relationship.