ICD-10-CM Code J9240: Acute Respiratory Failure Due to Pulmonary Embolism

J9240 is the ICD-10-CM diagnosis code for acute respiratory failure due to pulmonary embolism.

Clinical Context

• Pulmonary embolism (PE) obstructs pulmonary arteries → ventilation/perfusion mismatch, increased dead space, hypoxemia.
• Massive PE can cause acute right heart failure and hemodynamic collapse.
• Respiratory failure is defined by PaO₂ < 60 mmHg or PaCO₂ > 50 mmHg (or acute deterioration from baseline).

Coding Notes

• Use J9240 as the principal diagnosis when respiratory failure is the primary reason for admission.
• Also code the underlying PE (I26.0- for acute PE with acute cor pulmonale, I26.9- without).
• Sequencing follows ICD-10-CM guidelines: the condition chiefly responsible for admission is sequenced first.

Accurate coding ensures appropriate severity classification and reimbursement.