Air embolism in pregnancy, first trimester

This code signifies the presence of an air embolism occurring during the first trimester of a pregnancy. An air embolism is a blockage of a blood vessel caused by one or more bubbles of air or other gas, which can be life-threatening. In pregnancy, this can arise from various medical procedures or trauma.

Use this code when documentation explicitly states an air embolism diagnosis in a pregnant patient who is currently in her first trimester (up to 13 weeks and 6 days gestation). Supporting documentation should detail the presence of air or gas in the vascular system and the gestational age of the pregnancy.

• Always confirm the trimester of pregnancy; incorrect trimester assignment is a common error.
• Do not confuse with amniotic fluid embolism (O88.02-), which is a distinct and separate condition.
• Code any associated complications or underlying causes of the air embolism as additional diagnoses.