ICD-10 Code J95.04 – Tracheo-esophageal fistula following tracheostomy (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code J95.04 – Tracheo-esophageal fistula following tracheostomy
What it is
J95.04 identifies an abnormal connection between the trachea and esophagus that develops after a tracheostomy. Use it when documentation links the fistula directly to the tracheostomy procedure.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly reported findings include coughing or choking with swallowing, aspiration, and leakage of food or fluids into the airway.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents a tracheo-esophageal fistula as a complication following tracheostomy. It fits postoperative records, consultation notes, or discharge summaries that clearly connect the fistula to the tracheostomy. Check documentation if the cause is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use J95.04 for congenital tracheo-esophageal fistula or for fistulas from other causes. If the record does not state a tracheostomy-related complication, check documentation.
Coding tip
Code the complication only when the relationship to tracheostomy is documented, and also report any additional specified postoperative complications if present.