Z18.1 – Retained metal fragments
ICD-10-CM 2027 diagnosis code · Retained foreign body fragments (Z18)
ICD-10-CM code
Z18.1
- Code
Z18.1(claims format:Z181)- Description
- Retained metal fragments
- Billable
- No – use a more specific code below
- Valid for
- Dates of service October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2027 (FY2027)
- Chapter
- 21. Factors influencing health status and contact with health services (Z00-Z99)
- Block
- Z18 Retained foreign body fragments (Z18)
- Parent codes
- Z18
Billable codes under Z18.1
Z18.1 is a header code and cannot be used on claims. Choose the most specific code:
Notes for Z18.1
Notes inherited from parent codes
Instructional notes at a category or block level apply to every code below it.
Z18 – Retained foreign body fragments
Includes:
- embedded fragment (status)
- embedded splinter (status)
- retained foreign body status
Excludes1 (not coded here):
- artificial joint prosthesis status (Z96.6-)
- foreign body accidentally left during a procedure (T81.5-)
- foreign body entering through orifice (T15-T19)
- in situ cardiac device (Z95.-)
- organ or tissue replaced by means other than transplant (Z96.-, Z97.-)
- organ or tissue replaced by transplant (Z94.-)
- personal history of retained foreign body fully removed Z87.821
- superficial foreign body (non-embedded splinter) - code to superficial foreign body, by site
Related codes in Z18
Frequently asked questions
What is ICD-10 code Z18.1?
Z18.1 is the ICD-10-CM code for retained metal fragments, in the block Z18 (Retained foreign body fragments (Z18)).
Is Z18.1 a billable code?
No. Z18.1 is a header code with more specific child codes; report one of the billable codes listed above.
What category does Z18.1 belong to?
It belongs to category Z18 – Retained foreign body fragments.
Source: CDC/NCHS ICD-10-CM FY2027 code files, tabular list and index. Reference only – code assignment must follow the official ICD-10-CM guidelines and documentation in the medical record.