ICD-10 W26
Non-Billable HeaderContact with other sharp objects
About ICD-10-CM W26
ICD-10-CM code W26 represents Contact with other sharp objects. This is a non-billable header code in the External Causes of Morbidity chapter (block W26). The 2026 edition of ICD-10-CM W26 became effective on October 1, 2025. Non-billable codes cannot be used as a primary or secondary diagnosis on a claim, use a more specific child code instead.
Type 2 Excludes
Not included here, the excluded code is not part of W26, but a patient may have both conditions at the same time. Both codes may be coded together when applicable.
- sharp object(s) embedded in skin (W45.-)
Coding Notes
Seven Chr Note
- The appropriate 7th character is to be added to each code from category W26
Medicare LCD Coverage for W26
Local Coverage Determinations (LCDs) from CMS MACs that list W26 as a covered diagnosis.
This doesn't mean the code isn't covered, it means no MAC has issued a Local Coverage Determination naming this specific code. Coverage may still apply under National Coverage Determinations or general medical-necessity rules.
Commercial Payer Coverage
Coverage policies from major commercial payers referencing W26.
Our payer policy database covers Aetna, Cigna, Anthem, BCBS, Humana, and Medicare Advantage plans, but W26 doesn't currently appear in any indexed policy. The code may still be covered under standard plan benefits.
CPT Codes Commonly Billed with W26
Procedures frequently paired with this diagnosis based on PayerReady's Dx↔Px linkage data.
We don't have CPT pairings indexed for this specific code yet. Use the CPT search above to find common procedures, or check your payer's published medical policy for code-specific guidance.
Codes Adjacent To W26
Other codes in section W20-W49 (Exposure to inanimate mechanical forces).
ICD-10 W26, Billing FAQ
Is ICD-10 code W26 billable? +
No, W26 is a non-billable header code. Use a more specific child code from block W26 when submitting claims.
What codes are Type 2 Excludes for W26? +
Type 2 Excludes (may be coded together when both conditions exist): sharp object(s) embedded in skin (W45.-)
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Reviewed by the PayerReady Medical Coding Team
Verified against the CMS 2026 code set on July 16, 2026.
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