Non-Billable / Non-Specific Code
ICD-10-CM W46 is the diagnosis code for Contact with hypodermic needle. 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.
Always refer to the official ICD-10-CM Tabular List for complete coding guidelines. Ensure documentation supports the specificity of the code selected. When in doubt, consult a certified medical coder or the latest CMS guidelines.
Understanding where W46 sits in the ICD-10-CM classification helps ensure proper coding:
No, W46 is a non-billable/non-specific code. You should use a more specific sub-code for billing and reimbursement.
W46 is the ICD-10-CM diagnosis code for "Contact with hypodermic needle". It is used by healthcare providers to classify and document this condition in medical records and insurance claims.
W46 is located in Section W20-W49 — "Exposure to inanimate mechanical forces" within Chapter 20 of the ICD-10-CM Tabular List.
W46 has 2 sub-code(s) that provide more specific detail: W46.0, W46.1.
Use W46 when the patients documented diagnosis matches "Contact with hypodermic needle" and the clinical documentation supports this level of specificity. Always verify with the latest ICD-10-CM guidelines and payer requirements.
The ICD-10-CM code for Contact with hypodermic needle is W46.
No, W46 is non-billable. Use a more specific sub-code for primary diagnosis billing.
W46 is in Chapter 20 of the ICD-10-CM Tabular List.
Yes, W46 is a valid ICD-10-CM code for the 2026 fiscal year, subject to official CMS updates.