ICD-10 W45
Non-Billable HeaderForeign body or object entering through skin
About ICD-10-CM W45
ICD-10-CM code W45 represents Foreign body or object entering through skin. This is a non-billable header code in the External Causes of Morbidity chapter (block W45). The 2026 edition of ICD-10-CM W45 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 W45, but a patient may have both conditions at the same time. Both codes may be coded together when applicable.
- contact with hand tools (nonpowered) (powered) (W27-W29)
- contact with other sharp object(s) (W26.-)
- contact with sharp glass (W25.-)
- struck by objects (W20-W22)
Includes
- foreign body or object embedded in skin
- nail embedded in skin
Coding Notes
Seven Chr Note
- The appropriate 7th character is to be added to each code from category W45
Medicare LCD Coverage for W45
Local Coverage Determinations (LCDs) from CMS MACs that list W45 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 W45.
Our payer policy database covers Aetna, Cigna, Anthem, BCBS, Humana, and Medicare Advantage plans, but W45 doesn't currently appear in any indexed policy. The code may still be covered under standard plan benefits.
CPT Codes Commonly Billed with W45
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 W45
Other codes in section W20-W49 (Exposure to inanimate mechanical forces).
ICD-10 W45, Billing FAQ
Is ICD-10 code W45 billable? +
No, W45 is a non-billable header code. Use a more specific child code from block W45 when submitting claims.
What codes are Type 2 Excludes for W45? +
Type 2 Excludes (may be coded together when both conditions exist): contact with hand tools (nonpowered) (powered) (W27-W29); contact with other sharp object(s) (W26.-); contact with sharp glass (W25.-)
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Reviewed by the PayerReady Medical Coding Team
Verified against the CMS 2026 code set on June 1, 2026.
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