W45
Non-Billable

Foreign body or object entering through skin

Non-Billable / Non-Specific Code

What is Foreign body or object entering through skin?

ICD-10-CM W45 is the diagnosis code for Foreign body or object entering through skin. This code falls under the section "Exposure to inanimate mechanical forces" within Chapter 20 — External causes of morbidity (V00-Y99). It is a non-billable/non-specific ICD-10-CM code that should not be used for reimbursement. A more specific sub-code is required for billing. Medical coders and healthcare providers use this code to document and classify diagnoses in electronic health records, insurance claims, and clinical databases.

â„šī¸ Excludes2

Coding Guidelines for W45

â„šī¸ Type 2 Excludes (Code separately if applicable)

The following conditions are not included in W45. If the patient has both, code each condition separately:

  • 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)

ICD-10-CM Code Hierarchy

Understanding where W45 sits in the ICD-10-CM classification helps ensure proper coding:

Current CodeW45 — Foreign body or object entering through skin
Sub-Codes (3)
Sub-Codes 3 entries
W45.0Nail entering through skinBillableW45.3Fishing hook entering through skinBillableW45.8Other foreign body or object entering through skinBillable
Related Codes

Frequently Asked Questions

Is W45 a billable ICD-10-CM code?

No, W45 is a non-billable/non-specific code. You should use a more specific sub-code for billing and reimbursement.

What does W45 mean?

W45 is the ICD-10-CM diagnosis code for "Foreign body or object entering through skin". It is used by healthcare providers to classify and document this condition in medical records and insurance claims.

What section is W45 in?

W45 is located in Section W20-W49 — "Exposure to inanimate mechanical forces" within Chapter 20 of the ICD-10-CM Tabular List.

What are the sub-codes of W45?

W45 has 3 sub-code(s) that provide more specific detail: W45.0, W45.3, W45.8.

When should I use W45?

Use W45 when the patients documented diagnosis matches "Foreign body or object entering through skin" 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 Foreign body or object entering through skin?

The ICD-10-CM code for Foreign body or object entering through skin is W45.

Can W45 be used for primary diagnosis?

No, W45 is non-billable. Use a more specific sub-code for primary diagnosis billing.

What chapter is W45 in?

W45 is in Chapter 20 of the ICD-10-CM Tabular List.

Is W45 valid for 2026?

Yes, W45 is a valid ICD-10-CM code for the 2026 fiscal year, subject to official CMS updates.

See Also

← PreviousW44.H9Other sharp object entering into or through a natural orificeNext →W45.0Nail entering through skin
Code Details
W45
Foreign body or object entering through skin
Non-Billable / Non-Specific Code
20 — External causes of morbidity (V00-Y99)
W20-W49 — Exposure to inanimate mechanical forces
2026 ICD-10-CM