Rupture of artery

This code signifies a spontaneous or traumatic tearing or bursting of an arterial wall, leading to hemorrhage. It describes the structural failure of an artery, distinct from an aneurysm that may or may not have ruptured.

Use this code when documentation explicitly states a "rupture of artery," "arterial tear," or "burst artery" without further specification of an aneurysm or dissection. This is appropriate for acute events where the primary pathology is the arterial wall disruption.

• Do not use if the rupture is secondary to an aneurysm; instead, code the ruptured aneurysm.
• Requires documentation specifying "rupture" or "tear" of an artery.
• Consider additional codes for the site of the rupture (e.g., cerebral, aortic) if specified, and for any associated hemorrhage.