ICD-10 Code J95.821 – Acute postprocedural respiratory failure (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code J95.821 – Acute postprocedural respiratory failure
What it is
J95.821 identifies acute respiratory failure that occurs after a procedure or surgery. Use it when the record shows a new, acute failure to maintain adequate breathing or gas exchange following the intervention.
Clinical signs
Typical documentation may include respiratory distress, hypoxemia, hypercapnia, or the need for ventilatory support after a procedure. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents acute respiratory failure as a postoperative or postprocedural complication. It may apply when the failure is clearly linked to the procedure, anesthesia, or immediate recovery period. Check documentation for timing and causal wording.
Do not use for
Do not use it for chronic respiratory failure, expected postoperative oxygen use, or uncomplicated anesthesia recovery. If the note does not support an acute postprocedural complication, check documentation.
Coding tip
Look for a provider statement connecting the respiratory failure to the procedure before assigning J95.821.