J94.1

What This Code Means

Fibrothorax is a condition where scar tissue forms in the lining of the lungs and chest cavity, causing the lung to become restricted and less able to expand properly. This can result from previous lung infections, inflammation, or injury to the chest.

Coding Tips

• •Fibrothorax is typically a sequela (late effect) of a previous condition such as hemothorax, pneumothorax, or empyema; review documentation to determine if a causal relationship should be coded
• •Distinguish fibrothorax from other pleural conditions like pleural effusion or thickening; fibrothorax specifically indicates fibrosis/scarring of the pleural tissue