Foreign body in main bronchus

This code represents the presence of an inhaled foreign object lodged within one of the two main bronchi (right or left) of the respiratory system. This obstruction can lead to varying degrees of airway compromise, inflammation, and potential infection.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a foreign body has been aspirated and is specifically located in a main bronchus. This typically follows an aspiration event and is confirmed by imaging studies (e.g., chest X-ray, CT scan) or bronchoscopy.

• Differentiate from foreign bodies in the trachea or smaller bronchi, which have distinct codes.
• Always sequence this code as the primary diagnosis if it is the reason for the encounter.
• Ensure documentation specifies "main bronchus" rather than a general "bronchus" to support this specific code.