T15-T19: Effects of foreign body entering through natural orifice
T18: Foreign body in alimentary tract
Foreign body in the alimentary tract refers to a group of conditions characterized by the accidental ingestion or insertion of foreign objects into the digestive system, which includes the mouth, esophagus, stomach, and intestines. This can be caused by a variety of circumstances, such as unintentional swallowing of food bones or other non-food items, or in children, curiosity often leads to ingestion of small toys or objects. The symptoms largely depend on the location, size, and nature of the foreign body. Some people may not experience any symptoms, while others might have pain, difficulty swallowing, vomiting, or other digestive issues. Serious complications may occur if the object is sharp, leading to the tearing, puncturing or blocking of the digestive tract. Over time, the foreign object may cause infection, inflammation, or even a potentially life-threatening condition called peritonitis if it penetrates the stomach or intestinal wall.
Subcodes of T18:
- T18.0: Foreign body in mouth
- T18.1: Foreign body in oesophagus
- T18.2: Foreign body in stomach
- T18.3: Foreign body in small intestine
- T18.4: Foreign body in colon
- T18.5: Foreign body in anus and rectum
- T18.8: Foreign body in other and multiple parts of alimentary tract
- T18.9: Foreign body in alimentary tract, part unspecified
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The information provided on this page is for general educational purposes only. It is not intended for self-diagnosis and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions or concerns about your health.
If you see an ICD diagnosis code (e.g., on a medical report), be aware that doctors may also include additional indicators to express diagnostic certainty. Only a healthcare professional can interpret these codes accurately in the context of your individual case.
For a complete understanding of your condition and what the diagnosis means for you, please speak directly with your doctor.