ICD-10 Code I50.81 – Right heart failure (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code I50.81 – Right heart failure
What it is
Right heart failure means the right side of the heart cannot pump blood effectively to the lungs. It may occur alone or as part of broader heart failure.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include peripheral edema, jugular venous distention, hepatomegaly, and abdominal fullness. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use I50.81 when the provider documents right heart failure, right-sided heart failure, or cor pulmonale-related right-sided failure. Code it when the record clearly identifies the right ventricle as the failing side. If documentation only states heart failure without laterality, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for left-sided heart failure, unspecified heart failure, or fluid overload without documented cardiac failure. If the note does not support right heart failure, choose a more accurate code.
Coding tip
Confirm whether right heart failure is acute, chronic, or unspecified before coding, and follow the provider’s exact wording.