ICD-10-CM 2027
ICD-10 code for drains removal
From the official ICD-10-CM alphabetic index entry “Removal (from) (of) › drains”. Page updated September 29, 2026.
About coding drains removal
The ICD-10-CM code for drains removal is Z48.03 (Encounter for change or removal of drains).
Within Z48.0 (encounter for attention to dressings, sutures and drains), Z48.03 is specifically for encounter for change or removal of drains. Related codes cover change or removal of nonsurgical wound dressing (Z48.00), change or removal of surgical wound dressing (Z48.01) and removal of sutures (Z48.02).
It is not a CC or MCC, so as a secondary diagnosis it doesn't change the MS-DRG severity level.
In MS-DRG v44.0, it is part of the grouping logic for DRG 949 (Aftercare with CC/MCC, relative weight 1.123) and DRG 950 (Aftercare without CC/MCC, relative weight 0.7664), in MDC 23 (Factors Influencing Health Status and Other Contacts with Health Services), as a principal or secondary diagnosis. The DRG a claim lands in depends on the principal diagnosis, procedures and any CC/MCC secondary diagnoses.
Common questions about drains removal ICD-10 codes
What is the ICD-10 code for drains removal?
- Z48.03 — Encounter for change or removal of drains.
Is Z48.03 billable?
- Yes. Z48.03 is a billable/specific ICD-10-CM code valid for FY2027 (October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2027).
Can Z48.03 be used as a principal diagnosis?
- Yes. The Medicare Code Editor doesn't restrict Z48.03 as a principal diagnosis.
Is Z48.03 a CC or MCC?
- No. Z48.03 is neither a CC nor an MCC under MS-DRG v44.0.