Q18.2
Billable

Other branchial cleft malformations

Billable / Specific Code

What is Other branchial cleft malformations?

ICD-10-CM Q18.2 is the diagnosis code for Other branchial cleft malformations. This code falls under the section "Congenital malformations of eye, ear, face and neck" within Chapter 17 — Congenital malformations, deformations and chromosomal abnormalities (Q00-QA0). It is a billable/specific ICD-10-CM code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes. Medical coders and healthcare providers use this code to document and classify diagnoses in electronic health records, insurance claims, and clinical databases.

💡 Inclusions

Coding Guidelines for Q18.2

✅ This Code Includes

  • Branchial cleft malformation NOS
  • Cervical auricle
  • Otocephaly

ICD-10-CM Code Hierarchy

Understanding where Q18.2 sits in the ICD-10-CM classification helps ensure proper coding:

Related Codes

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Q18.2 a billable ICD-10-CM code?

Yes, Q18.2 is a billable/specific ICD-10-CM code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.

What does Q18.2 mean?

Q18.2 is the ICD-10-CM diagnosis code for "Other branchial cleft malformations". It is used by healthcare providers to classify and document this condition in medical records and insurance claims.

What is the parent code of Q18.2?

The parent code of Q18.2 is Q18 ("Other congenital malformations of face and neck"). Q18.2 provides a more specific classification within this category.

What section is Q18.2 in?

Q18.2 is located in Section Q10-Q18 — "Congenital malformations of eye, ear, face and neck" within Chapter 17 of the ICD-10-CM Tabular List.

When should I use Q18.2?

Use Q18.2 when the patients documented diagnosis matches "Other branchial cleft malformations" and the clinical documentation supports this level of specificity. Always verify with the latest ICD-10-CM guidelines and payer requirements.

People Also Ask

What is the ICD-10 code for Other branchial cleft malformations?

The ICD-10-CM code for Other branchial cleft malformations is Q18.2.

Can Q18.2 be used for primary diagnosis?

Yes, Q18.2 can be used as a primary diagnosis code since it is billable and specific.

What chapter is Q18.2 in?

Q18.2 is in Chapter 17 of the ICD-10-CM Tabular List.

Is Q18.2 valid for 2026?

Yes, Q18.2 is a valid ICD-10-CM code for the 2026 fiscal year, subject to official CMS updates.

See Also

← PreviousQ18.1Preauricular sinus and cystNext →Q18.3Webbing of neck
Code Details
Q18.2
Other branchial cleft malformations
Billable / Specific Code
17 — Congenital malformations, deformations and chromosomal abnormalities (Q00-QA0)
Q10-Q18 — Congenital malformations of eye, ear, face and neck
2026 ICD-10-CM