W78 is not a valid ICD-10-CM billing code
W78 exists in the World Health Organization's base ICD-10 classification, but was
never adopted into ICD-10-CM (the United States clinical modification used for medical billing). It
cannot be used on a US claim. Reference information from the official WHO classification is shown below.
Code
W78
Title
Inhalation of gastric contents
Includes
- asphyxia by vomitus [regurgitated food]
- choked on vomitus [regurgitated food]
- suffocation by vomitus [regurgitated food]
- aspiration and inhalation of vomitus (into respiratory tract) NOS
- compression of trachea by vomitus in oesophagus
- interruption of respiration by vomitus in oesophagus
- obstruction of respiration by vomitus in oesophagus
Excludes
- W44 injury, except asphyxia or obstruction of respiratory tract, caused by vomitus
- W44 obstruction of oesophagus by vomitus without mention of asphyxia or obstruction of respiratory tract
Source: WHO ICD-10 (International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, 10th Revision)