ICD-10 Coding for Lower Limb Weakness(G83.1, M62.81, I69.351)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Lower Limb Weakness. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Lower Limb Weakness
G80-G83Primary Range
Cerebral Palsy and Other Paralytic Syndromes
This range includes codes for various types of paralysis and paresis affecting the lower limbs.
Disorders of Muscles
This range includes codes for muscle weakness not due to neurological causes.
Sequelae of Cerebrovascular Disease
This range includes codes for residual effects of strokes, which can include lower limb weakness.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| G83.1 | Spastic hemiplegia | Use for unilateral spastic weakness post-stroke. |
|
| M62.81 | Muscle weakness (generalized) | Use for non-neurological generalized weakness. |
|
| I69.351 | Hemiplegia and hemiparesis following cerebral infarction affecting right dominant side | Use for residual weakness post-right-sided stroke. |
|
Clinical Decision Support
Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for lower limb weakness
Essential facts and insights about Lower Limb Weakness
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for lower limb weakness
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of spasticity and hyperreflexia
Applicable To
- Spastic hemiparesis
Excludes
- Flaccid hemiplegia (G81.0)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- MRI showing contralateral cortical infarct
- Presence of upper motor neuron signs
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrect use for non-spastic weakness
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies spasticity.
M62.81 - Muscle weakness (generalized)
Use for non-neurological generalized weakness.
Applicable To
- Generalized muscle weakness
Excludes
- Localized muscle weakness (M62.8-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Normal neurological exam
- No focal neurological deficits
Coding Notes
Ensure weakness is not due to a neurological cause.
I69.351 - Hemiplegia and hemiparesis following cerebral infarction affecting right dominant side
Use for residual weakness post-right-sided stroke.
Applicable To
- Right-sided hemiparesis post-stroke
Excludes
- Hemiplegia due to other causes
Clinical Validation Requirements
- History of stroke
- Documented right-sided weakness
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation specifies stroke history and side affected.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Lower Limb Weakness to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code G83.1.
Impact
Clinical: Inaccurate clinical history, Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards, Financial: Potential loss of reimbursement
Mitigation Strategy
Always review patient history for stroke events, Ensure documentation includes stroke details
Impact
Reimbursement: May result in lower reimbursement due to non-HCC code usage., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines for stroke sequelae., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Use specific terms like 'hemiparesis' or 'monoplegia' for stroke-related weakness.
Impact
Inaccurate coding of stroke sequelae can lead to audit discrepancies.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure thorough documentation of stroke history and current neurological status.
Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Lower Limb Weakness, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Lower Limb Weakness
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Lower Limb Weakness. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Post-stroke lower limb weakness
Specialty: NeurologyRequired Elements
- Detailed neurological exam
- Stroke history
- Current functional status
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Lower Limb Weakness? Ask your questions below.