860.5
ICD-9-CMThis code signifies the presence of both air (pneumothorax) and blood (hemothorax) in the pleural space, resulting from a traumatic injury. A key feature is an open wound that directly communicates with the thoracic cavity, allowing external air or contaminants to enter. This condition represents a severe, life-threatening chest injury.
Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a traumatic pneumohemothorax with an associated open chest wound, such as a stab wound, gunshot wound, or impalement. The presence of both air and blood in the pleural space, along with an external opening to the thorax, must be explicitly stated.
AI-generated reference — verify against official guidelines