ICD-10 Coding for Meralgia Paresthetica(G57.10, G57.11, G57.12, G57.13)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Meralgia Paresthetica. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Meralgia Paresthetica
G57.1Primary Range
Mononeuropathy of lower limb
This range includes codes specific to the entrapment of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve, which is the primary condition described by meralgia paresthetica.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| G57.10 | Meralgia paresthetica, unspecified lower limb | Use when laterality is not specified in the documentation. |
|
| G57.11 | Meralgia paresthetica, right lower limb | Use when documentation specifies right lower limb involvement. |
|
| G57.12 | Meralgia paresthetica, left lower limb | Use when documentation specifies left lower limb involvement. |
|
| G57.13 | Meralgia paresthetica, bilateral lower limbs | Use when documentation specifies bilateral lower limb involvement. |
|
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 meralgia paresthetica
Essential facts and insights about Meralgia Paresthetica
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for meralgia paresthetica
Decision Criteria
documentation Criteria
- Laterality not documented
Applicable To
- Unspecified laterality of meralgia paresthetica
Excludes
- Traumatic nerve injury
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Sensory symptoms in the anterolateral thigh
- Absence of motor deficits
Code-Specific Risks
- Risk of denials due to lack of specificity
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies laterality to avoid using this unspecified code.
G57.11 - Meralgia paresthetica, right lower limb
Use when documentation specifies right lower limb involvement.
Applicable To
- Right-sided meralgia paresthetica
Excludes
- Traumatic nerve injury
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Burning pain in right anterolateral thigh
- Positive pelvic compression test
Coding Notes
Ensure laterality is clearly documented to use this code.
G57.12 - Meralgia paresthetica, left lower limb
Use when documentation specifies left lower limb involvement.
Applicable To
- Left-sided meralgia paresthetica
Excludes
- Traumatic nerve injury
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Tingling in left anterolateral thigh
- Positive pelvic compression test
Coding Notes
Ensure laterality is clearly documented to use this code.
G57.13 - Meralgia paresthetica, bilateral lower limbs
Use when documentation specifies bilateral lower limb involvement.
Applicable To
- Bilateral meralgia paresthetica
Excludes
- Traumatic nerve injury
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Bilateral thigh numbness
- Positive pelvic compression test
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation specifies bilateral involvement to use this code.
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.
Low back pain
M54.5Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Meralgia Paresthetica to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code G57.10.
Impact
Clinical: Leads to incorrect diagnosis coding., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Educate providers on the importance of laterality documentation.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to claim denials or reduced reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure laterality is specified in documentation and use the appropriate specific code.
Impact
Using unspecified codes when laterality is documented.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure laterality is always documented and coded appropriately.
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 Meralgia Paresthetica, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Meralgia Paresthetica
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Meralgia Paresthetica. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Orthopedic Evaluation
Specialty: OrthopedicsRequired Elements
- History of present illness
- Physical examination findings
- Diagnostic test results
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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