Question 1

Is W88 a billable ICD-10 code?

Accepted Answer

No, W88 is not a billable code. It is a category code that requires additional specificity. You must select a more specific code from the subcategories for billing purposes.

Question 2

What does ICD-10 code W88 mean?

Accepted Answer

ICD-10-CM code W88 represents Exposure to ionizing radiation. This code is part of the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, Clinical Modification used for medical coding and billing in the United States.

Question 3

When was ICD-10 code W88 introduced?

Accepted Answer

Code W88 has been part of ICD-10-CM since 2016, when the coding system was mandated for use in the United States. This code was included in the original US implementation.

Question 4

What is the parent category for ICD-10 code W88?

Accepted Answer

The parent category for W88 is section:W85-W99 (Exposure to electric current, radiation and extreme ambient air temperature and pressure (W85-W99)). This hierarchical classification helps organize related diagnoses for more accurate coding.

Question 5

What conditions are excluded from W88?

Accepted Answer

Code W88 has Type 1 Excludes (mutually exclusive conditions) including: exposure to sunlight (X32). These conditions cannot be coded together with W88 as they represent different diagnoses.

Question 6

Does W88 require a 7th character extension?

Accepted Answer

Yes, W88 requires a 7th character to specify the encounter type. Available extensions include: A (initial encounter), D (subsequent encounter), S (sequela). Use "X" as a placeholder to fill empty positions before the 7th character (e.g., W88XXA for initial encounter). The extension indicates whether this is an initial visit, follow-up, or treatment for a late effect.

W882026

Excludes19Not coded together

Notes1Additional information

7th Character Extensions3Encounter type specifiers