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ICD-10 Coding for Diaphragmatic Paralysis(J98.6, P14.2)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Diaphragmatic Paralysis. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Diaphragm ParalysisPhrenic Nerve Paralysishemidiaphragmatic paralysis

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Diaphragmatic Paralysis

J98.6Primary Range

Disorders of diaphragm

Primary range for acquired diaphragmatic paralysis without specific etiology.

Phrenic nerve paralysis due to birth injury

Used for neonatal cases with documented birth trauma.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
J98.6Disorders of diaphragmUse for acquired diaphragmatic paralysis without specific etiology.
  • Paradoxical diaphragmatic movement on fluoroscopic sniff test
  • Unilateral elevation of hemidiaphragm on upright CXR
P14.2Phrenic nerve paralysis due to birth injuryUse for neonatal cases with documented birth trauma.
  • Documentation of birth trauma leading to phrenic nerve injury.

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 diaphragmatic paralysis

Essential facts and insights about Diaphragmatic Paralysis

The ICD-10 code for diaphragmatic paralysis is J98.6, primarily used for acquired cases without specific etiology.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for lymphocytes diaphragmatic paralysis

Disorders of diaphragm
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Paradoxical diaphragmatic movement confirmed by imaging.

Applicable To

  • Diaphragmatic paralysis

Excludes

  • Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (Q79.0)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Paradoxical diaphragmatic movement on fluoroscopic sniff test
  • Unilateral elevation of hemidiaphragm on upright CXR

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly coding without specifying laterality.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies laterality and etiology.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Phrenic nerve disorder

G58.7
Use when paralysis is explicitly linked to phrenic nerve pathology.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Dyspnea

R06.8
Use only if paralysis isn’t confirmed.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Diaphragmatic Paralysis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code J98.6.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for reduced reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Include laterality in all relevant documentation.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to reduced reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Impacts accuracy of clinical data.

Mitigation Strategy

Always code J98.6 when imaging confirms paralysis.

Impact

Improper sequencing can lead to audit flags.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure U07.1 is sequenced as the primary diagnosis when COVID-19 is the cause.

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 Diaphragmatic Paralysis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Diaphragmatic Paralysis

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Diaphragmatic Paralysis. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Post-thoracic surgery paralysis

Specialty: Pulmonology

Required Elements

  • Laterality
  • Etiology
  • Confirmatory tests

Example Documentation

Patient with 3-week history of exertional dyspnea. Fluoroscopy demonstrates paradoxical motion of left hemidiaphragm during sniff test. EMG shows prolonged latency in left phrenic nerve.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Breathing difficulty
Good Documentation Example
Orthopnea and 40% reduction in FVC when supine due to right diaphragmatic paralysis
Explanation
The good example provides specific clinical findings and impacts on function.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Diaphragmatic Paralysis? Ask your questions below.

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