ICD-10 Code I97.120 – Postprocedural cardiac arrest following cardiac surgery (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code I97.120 – Postprocedural cardiac arrest following cardiac surgery
What it is
This code identifies cardiac arrest that occurs after cardiac surgery and is documented as a postoperative complication. Use it when the arrest is specifically linked to the procedure rather than to an unrelated medical condition.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include sudden loss of pulse, unresponsiveness, and need for immediate resuscitation after surgery. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for the postoperative timing and the surgeon’s or physician’s attribution.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record states cardiac arrest occurred following cardiac surgery and the provider identifies it as postprocedural. It may appear in the postoperative course, operative report, or discharge summary. Confirm that the event is tied to the surgery, not a preexisting arrest or another cause.
Do not use for
Do not use it for cardiac arrest unrelated to surgery or for arrest documented before the procedure. If the chart does not clearly link the arrest to the cardiac surgery, check documentation.
Coding tip
Assign this code only when the postoperative relationship is explicitly documented.