ICD-10 Code J95.86 – Postprocedural hematoma and seroma of a respiratory system organ or structure following a procedure (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code J95.86 – Postprocedural hematoma and seroma of a respiratory system organ or structure following a procedure
What it is
J95.86 identifies a hematoma or seroma that develops in a respiratory organ or structure after a procedure. It means blood or fluid has collected where surgery or another intervention was performed.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common findings may include localized swelling, tenderness, airway or chest symptoms, or imaging evidence of a postoperative fluid collection in a respiratory site.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record clearly links a postoperative hematoma or seroma to a respiratory procedure, such as after surgery involving the airway, lung, or related structure. You should code it when the provider documents the complication as occurring after the procedure. Check documentation for the exact organ or structure involved.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for a preexisting hematoma or seroma, or for fluid collections unrelated to a procedure. Do not assign it if the documentation does not state a postoperative respiratory complication.
Coding tip
Confirm both the postoperative relationship and the respiratory site before assigning J95.86.