ICDwise
W45 ⚠ Non-billable

Foreign body or object entering through skin

ICD-10-CM · FY2026 · External Causes of Morbidity

Code
W45
System
ICD-10-CM
Billable
No — use specific code
Effective
FY2026
Chapter
External Causes of Morbidity
Source
CMS / CDC NCHS
⚠ Verify before billing. Confirm against the current CMS/NCHS ICD-10-CM files and your payer's rules before claims submission.

Official coding notes

From CMS's ICD-10-CM Tabular List.

Includes
  • foreign body or object embedded in skin
  • nail embedded in skin
Excludes2 — not included here, but may code together
  • 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)
7th character
  • The appropriate 7th character is to be added to each code from category W45

Frequently asked questions

What is ICD-10 code W45?
ICD-10-CM code W45 represents Foreign body or object entering through skin. It is a non-billable header code requiring a more specific subcategory in the External Causes of Morbidity chapter, effective October 1, 2025 – September 30, 2026.
Is W45 billable?
No. W45 is a non-billable header. Select a more specific subcategory for claims submission.
What chapter is W45 in?
W45 belongs to the External Causes of Morbidity chapter (V00–Y99) of ICD-10-CM.

Related codes in the W45 category

W45.0 Nail entering through skin Non-billable W45.3 Fishing hook entering through skin Non-billable W45.8 Other foreign body or object entering through skin Non-billable W45.0XXA Nail entering through skin, initial encounter Billable W45.0XXD Nail entering through skin, subsequent encounter Billable W45.0XXS Nail entering through skin, sequela Billable W45.3XXA Fishing hook entering through skin, initial encounter Billable W45.3XXD Fishing hook entering through skin, subsequent encounter Billable

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