ICD-10 Code L76.1 – Accidental puncture and laceration of skin and subcutaneous tissue during a procedure (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L76.1 – Accidental puncture and laceration of skin and subcutaneous tissue during a procedure
What it is
L76.1 identifies an unintended puncture or laceration of the skin and subcutaneous tissue that occurs during a procedure. Use it when the injury is documented as a procedural complication, not as the main reason for care.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical findings may include a visible skin break, bleeding, localized pain, or a wound noted during or after the procedure.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record clearly states that the skin or subcutaneous tissue was accidentally punctured or cut during a procedure. It fits operative, bedside, or device-related events if the injury is documented as unintended. You should confirm the complication is attributed to the procedure itself.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for intentional incisions, routine surgical wounds, or injuries unrelated to a procedure. Check documentation if the note describes a different complication or a deeper structure injury.
Coding tip
Code the complication only when the provider links the injury to the procedure and specifies the tissue involved.