T16.9XXD — Foreign body in ear, unspecified ear, subsequent encounter
Is T16.9XXD billable?
Yes, but T16.9XXD is an unspecified code. T16.9XXD is a valid, billable ICD-10-CM code for encounters from October 1, 2026 through September 30, 2027. However, T16.9XXD 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 T16.9XXD — the more specific alternatives are listed below.
T16.9XXD at a glance
| Code | T16.9XXD |
|---|---|
| Description | Foreign body in ear, unspecified ear, subsequent encounter |
| Billable | Yes |
| Code set | ICD-10-CM FY2027 |
| Valid for encounters | October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2027 |
| 7th character "D" | subsequent encounter |
What does the 7th character "D" mean in T16.9XXD?
In T16.9XXD, the 7th character D means subsequent encounter. The 7th character is required for T16.9XXD to be a valid, complete code.
Same condition, different episode of care — switch the 7th character:
Which MS-DRGs does T16.9XXD group to?
T16.9XXD sits in MDC 23 and helps define the logic of 2 MS-DRGs (version 44, FY2027). Which one a stay actually groups to also depends on procedures and secondary diagnoses.
- 949Aftercare with CC/MCCmedical
- 950Aftercare without CC/MCCmedical
Use additional code — inherited from Chapter 19
Report an additional code alongside T16.9XXD to fully describe the condition. T16.9XXD is sequenced first.
- code to identify any retained foreign body, if applicable (Z18.-)
Use additional code — inherited from T15-T19
Report an additional code alongside T16.9XXD to fully describe the condition. T16.9XXD is sequenced first.
- code, if known, for foreign body entering into or through a natural orifice (W44.-)
Excludes2 — not included here — inherited from Chapter 19
The conditions below are not part of T16.9XXD, but a patient may have both at the same time. When documentation supports it, T16.9XXD and the excluded code may both be reported.
Excludes2 — not included here — inherited from T15-T19
The conditions below are not part of T16.9XXD, but a patient may have both at the same time. When documentation supports it, T16.9XXD and the excluded code may both be reported.
How long has T16.9XXD existed?
T16.9XXD 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.