C Section ICD-10-CM Codes | 2023

What ICD-10 Codes are Used for C Section?

Cesarean sections (C-sections) are vital surgical procedures performed to deliver babies when natural vaginal delivery is not possible or safe for the mother or child. The ICD-10-CM codes for C-sections are comprehensive, reflecting various clinical scenarios that might necessitate such a procedure. Below is an expanded list of ICD-10 codes used for documenting a C-section, each with its clinical description:

• O82 - Encounter for cesarean delivery without indication: This code is applied when a C-section is carried out without a medical indication, which may be due to a history of cesarean deliveries or maternal choice.
• Z38.01 - Single liveborn infant, delivered by cesarean: This code is designated for a single infant born alive as a result of cesarean delivery.
• O34.211 - Maternal care for scar from previous cesarean delivery: This code is used for managing a pregnant woman with a scar from a previous C-section, which could impact the management of the current pregnancy.
• O60.1X1 - Preterm labor with preterm delivery, delivered, with or without mention of antepartum condition: This code is appropriate for cases where a C-section is performed due to preterm labor, with or without other antepartum conditions.
• Z98.891 - History of cesarean delivery: This code indicates a patient's history of having undergone a cesarean delivery, which is essential information for managing subsequent pregnancies.
• O75.7 - Cesarean delivery on maternal request: This code is for C-sections performed upon the mother's request, without medical or obstetric indications.
• O32.1XX0 - Maternal care for breech presentation, not applicable or unspecified: Used when a C-section is performed due to the baby being in a breech position, posing risks for a vaginal delivery.
• O00.1 - Tubal pregnancy: In the rare event that a C-section is performed to manage a tubal pregnancy, this code might be used in conjunction with other procedure codes.
• O36.4XX0 - Maternal care for intrauterine death, not applicable or unspecified: This code may be used when a C-section is performed after an intrauterine fetal demise to manage the clinical situation.

Each code plays a crucial role in medical billing and coding, ensuring that healthcare providers receive appropriate reimbursement for the services provided. For a detailed understanding and a full list of ICD-10 codes, please watch our explainer video on C Section ICD Codes.

Which C Section ICD codes are Billable?

• O82 - Yes
• Z38.01 - Yes
• O34.211 - Yes
• O60.1X1 - Yes
• Z98.891 - Yes

Clinical Information

• Cesarean deliveries are typically recommended when vaginal delivery could pose a risk to the mother or baby. Common indications include obstructed labor, fetal distress, placenta previa, placental abruption, high-risk pregnancies, and certain medical conditions of the mother.
• During a C-section, the mother is usually awake, with anesthesia applied to numb the lower part of the body. A surgical incision is made in the abdomen and uterus to deliver the baby. The procedure generally takes about 45 minutes to an hour.
• After a C-section, mothers usually stay in the hospital for 2-4 days, depending on their recovery. Pain management, wound care, and monitoring for any complications are critical aspects of postoperative care.
• While C-sections are generally safe, they carry risks such as infections, hemorrhage, reactions to anesthesia, blood clots, and increased recovery time. There's also a potential impact on future pregnancies, such as the risk of uterine rupture or placental issues.
• A history of C-sections can influence the management of subsequent pregnancies and deliveries. Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC) may be an option for some women, but it depends on several factors, including the type of incision and the reason for the initial C-section.
• Women who have had a C-section may experience longer-term effects such as chronic pelvic pain or adhesions. Healthcare providers must discuss these potential outcomes with patients during the decision-making process and postoperative care.

Synonyms Include:

• Cesarean delivery
• Cesarean section
• Surgical birth
• Abdominal delivery
• Section caesarea