Pyemic and septic embolism in childbirth

This code signifies the presence of a pyemic (pus-forming) or septic (infection-related) embolism occurring during the peripartum period. It indicates a serious complication where infected material travels through the bloodstream, potentially leading to widespread infection and organ damage in a patient who is currently in labor, delivering, or in the immediate postpartum period.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states a diagnosis of pyemic or septic embolism specifically occurring during childbirth. Supporting documentation should include evidence of infection, embolic event, and the timing relative to the delivery process. This code is appropriate for cases where the embolism is a direct complication of the childbirth event.

• Ensure documentation specifies "in childbirth" to differentiate from other timeframes (e.g., antepartum or puerperium).
• Code any underlying infection (e.g., puerperal sepsis) separately as a primary diagnosis if it is the cause of the embolism.
• Do not confuse with non-septic embolisms (e.g., amniotic fluid embolism, pulmonary embolism without infection).