Obstructed labor due to unusually large fetus

This code signifies a delivery complication where the labor progression is hindered or arrested because the fetus is disproportionately large for the maternal pelvis. This obstruction prevents the natural descent and expulsion of the baby through the birth canal. It indicates a mechanical impediment to vaginal delivery due to fetal size.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states obstructed labor due to a macrosomic or unusually large fetus, leading to a difficult or failed vaginal delivery. This diagnosis is typically made during labor when the fetal head or body cannot pass through the maternal pelvis despite adequate contractions. Supporting documentation includes physician notes detailing the disproportion, failed progression, and often, the subsequent delivery method (e.g., C-section due to cephalopelvic disproportion).

• Ensure documentation clearly links the obstruction directly to the unusually large fetus, rather than other causes of obstructed labor.
• This code is a maternal complication of labor and delivery; it should be sequenced as a principal diagnosis when it is the reason for admission or the primary condition treated.
• Do not confuse with codes for cephalopelvic disproportion (CPD) where the cause of the disproportion is not specifically identified as an unusually large fetus (e.g., maternal pelvic abnormalities).