Z18 – Retained foreign body fragments

ICD-10-CM 2027 diagnosis code · Retained foreign body fragments (Z18)

Non-billable header

ICD-10-CM code Z18

Code: Z18 (claims format: Z18)
Description: Retained foreign body 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)

Billable codes under Z18

Z18 is a header code and cannot be used on claims. Choose the most specific code:

Z18.0 – Retained radioactive fragmentsHeader (more codes below)
Z18.1 – Retained metal fragmentsHeader (more codes below)
Z18.2 – Retained plastic fragmentsBillable
Z18.3 – Retained organic fragmentsHeader (more codes below)
Z18.8 – Other specified retained foreign bodyHeader (more codes below)
Z18.9 – Retained foreign body fragments, unspecified materialBillable

Notes for Z18

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

Frequently asked questions

What is ICD-10 code Z18?

Z18 is the ICD-10-CM code for retained foreign body fragments, in the block Z18 (Retained foreign body fragments (Z18)).

Is Z18 a billable code?

No. Z18 is a header code with more specific child codes; report one of the billable codes listed above.

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.