Fat embolism of pulmonary artery with acute cor pulmonale

This code signifies the presence of a fat embolism obstructing the pulmonary artery, leading to the sudden onset of right-sided heart failure. This acute cardiac dysfunction is a direct consequence of the increased pressure and resistance within the pulmonary circulation caused by the embolic event.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a fat embolism affecting the pulmonary vasculature, accompanied by signs and symptoms of acute cor pulmonale, such as sudden dyspnea, hypoxemia, and right ventricular strain. This often occurs following major trauma, orthopedic surgery (especially long bone fractures), or pancreatitis.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly links the fat embolism to the acute cor pulmonale; a causal relationship must be stated or clearly implied.
• Do not use this code for chronic cor pulmonale or for fat embolism without documented acute right heart failure.
• Consider additional codes for the underlying cause of the fat embolism (e.g., fracture codes, surgical complications).