Air embolism in childbirth

This code signifies the presence of an air embolism occurring during the process of childbirth. It describes a life-threatening event where air enters the maternal circulatory system, potentially leading to pulmonary or systemic obstruction. This condition is a rare but serious complication of labor and delivery.

Use this code when documentation explicitly states an air embolism occurred during the delivery episode. This includes scenarios such as air entering through open uterine vessels during placental separation or during C-section. Supporting documentation should detail the diagnosis of air embolism and its temporal relationship to childbirth.

• Ensure documentation specifies "in childbirth" to differentiate from air embolism at other times during pregnancy or puerperium.
• Sequence this code as a principal diagnosis if it is the primary reason for admission or the condition requiring the most significant resources.
• Do not confuse with air embolism occurring post-delivery (O88.03) or during pregnancy (O88.01).