Postsurgical hypothyroidism

This code represents hypothyroidism that develops as a direct consequence of a surgical procedure, typically thyroidectomy or partial thyroidectomy. It signifies an insufficient production of thyroid hormones due to the removal or damage of thyroid tissue during surgery.

Use this code when documentation clearly states a diagnosis of hypothyroidism occurring after a surgical intervention involving the thyroid gland. This diagnosis is often supported by laboratory findings of elevated TSH and low T3/T4 levels in a patient with a history of thyroid surgery.

• Always link to the appropriate E878.x external cause code if the surgery was an adverse effect of medical care.
• Distinguish from primary hypothyroidism (244.9) which is not surgically induced.
• Ensure the medical record explicitly states the hypothyroidism is "postsurgical" or "post-thyroidectomy."