Explosion and rupture of other specified pressurized devices (W38) ICD-10-CM
The W38 code range covers explosion and rupture of other specified pressurized devices with 4 ICD-10-CM diagnosis codes. 3 of them are billable and valid for claim submission in fiscal year 2026, and the category headers group them but cannot themselves be billed.
7th Character Note
Certain ICD-10-CM categories have applicable 7th characters. The applicable 7th character is required for all codes within the category, or as the notes in the Tabular List instruct. The 7th character must always be the 7th character in the data field. If a code that requires a 7th character is not 6 characters, a placeholder X must be used to fill in the empty characters.
- The appropriate 7th character is to be added to code W38
7th Character
Indicates that a seventh character is to be assigned to codes in a subcategory.
- A - initial encounter
- D - subsequent encounter
- S - sequela
Codes in the W38 Range 4 codes · 3 billable
- W38 Explosion and rupture of other specified pressurized devicesNon-billable
- W38.XXXA Explosion and rupture of other specified pressurized devices, initial encounter
- W38.XXXD Explosion and rupture of other specified pressurized devices, subsequent encounter
- W38.XXXS Explosion and rupture of other specified pressurized devices, sequela
About the W38 Code Range
The ICD-10 code W38 is used to classify injuries caused by the explosion or rupture of specified pressurized devices, such as pressure cookers or pressure vessels. It captures events ranging from initial injury to later encounters and long-term effects.
This section includes specific codes like W38.XXXA for the initial encounter after an accident caused by an explosion of a pressure vessel or pressure cooker, W38.XXXD for subsequent care visits related to this injury, and W38.XXXS for sequela, indicating complications or conditions that arise as a direct consequence of the initial explosion. Using these codes helps medical coders accurately record and differentiate the stages of treatment following such accidents. Recognizing terms like "accident caused by explosion of pressure cooker" or "pressure vessel explosion" directs coders toward this specific ICD-10 code category, ensuring precise documentation of these uncommon but hazardous injury events.
Questions About This Page
How many billable codes are in the W38 range?
Of the 4 codes in this range, 3 are billable and valid for claim submission from October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026. Category header codes group them but cannot be reported on claims.
What does the W38 range classify?
The range classifies explosion and rupture of other specified pressurized devices. Each code links to its own reference page with billing status, MS-DRG grouping, coding notes, and clinical information.
Related References
Source: CMS FY 2026 ICD-10-CM Tabular List and order file, effective October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026.
