Z18

Non-billable

Retained foreign body fragments

Z18 is the ICD-10-CM code for Retained foreign body fragments. It is a non-billable category code — use a more specific child code such as Z18.0 for billing.

Status
Header (non-billable)
Chapter
Z00-Z99
Subcodes
6
Edition
FY2026

Z00-Z99 Factors influencing health status and contact with health services

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". It falls under Z00-Z99 Factors influencing health status and contact with health services.
Is Z18 a billable code?
No — Z18 is a non-billable header code. Use a more specific child code (such as Z18.0) for billing.
What are the subcodes of Z18?
Z18 has 6 more specific child codes, including Z18.0, Z18.1, Z18.2.
What is excluded from Z18?
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.-).

Source: CMS ICD-10-CM FY2026. For informational purposes only — not medical advice. See our medical disclaimer.

Look up another ICD-10 code or condition

Powered by Eleplan

Free ICD-10 lookup is just the start. Eleplan keeps the whole care plan in one place.

Diagnoses, medications, documents, appointments, and the whole care team — organized and always in sync, with Ellie, your AI care assistant, on top of it. Free to start.