C02.3 — Malignant neoplasm of anterior two-thirds of tongue, part unspecified
Is C02.3 billable?
Yes, but C02.3 is an unspecified code. C02.3 is a valid, billable ICD-10-CM code for encounters from October 1, 2026 through September 30, 2027. However, C02.3 is an unspecified or catch-all code. Payers apply additional scrutiny to unspecified codes and many deny them when the medical record supports a more specific option, so check the documentation before selecting C02.3 — the more specific alternatives are listed below.
C02.3 at a glance
| Code | C02.3 |
|---|---|
| Description | Malignant neoplasm of anterior two-thirds of tongue, part unspecified |
| Billable | Yes |
| Code set | ICD-10-CM FY2027 |
| Valid for encounters | October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2027 |
Which MS-DRGs does C02.3 group to?
C02.3 sits in MDC Pre and helps define the logic of 3 MS-DRGs (version 44, FY2027). Which one a stay actually groups to also depends on procedures and secondary diagnoses.
- 011Tracheostomy for Face, Mouth and Neck Diagnoses or Laryngectomy with MCCsurgical
- 012Tracheostomy for Face, Mouth and Neck Diagnoses or Laryngectomy with CCsurgical
- 013Tracheostomy for Face, Mouth and Neck Diagnoses or Laryngectomy without CC/MCCsurgical
Inclusion terms
Alternative wording in documentation that is classified to C02.3.
- Malignant neoplasm of middle third of tongue NOS
- Malignant neoplasm of mobile part of tongue NOS
Use additional code — inherited from C02
Report an additional code alongside C02.3 to fully describe the condition. C02.3 is sequenced first.
How long has C02.3 existed?
C02.3 has been in ICD-10-CM since at least FY2016, the earliest fiscal year on record here.
Derived from the official order files for FY2016–FY2026. FY2017 and FY2020 publish no order file, so those years are not covered.