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ICD-10 Coding for Pharyngeal Dysphagia(R13.13)

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

Also known as:

Swallowing DisorderDysphagia, Pharyngeal Phase

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Pharyngeal Dysphagia

R13.1-R13.19Primary Range

Dysphagia

This range includes codes for different phases of dysphagia, with R13.13 specifically for pharyngeal phase dysphagia.

Sequelae of cerebrovascular disease

Used as primary codes for post-stroke dysphagia, with R13.13 as secondary.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for pharyngeal dysphagia

Essential facts and insights about Pharyngeal Dysphagia

The ICD-10 code for pharyngeal dysphagia is R13.13, used when pharyngeal phase impairment is confirmed by instrumental evaluation.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for pharyngeal dysphagia

Dysphagia, pharyngeal phase
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Pharyngeal residue >10% on VFSS

documentation Criteria

  • Detailed report of pharyngeal phase findings

Applicable To

  • Impaired pharyngeal constriction
  • Delayed laryngeal vestibule closure

Excludes

  • Esophageal dysphagia (K22.2)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • VFSS showing pharyngeal residue
  • FEES showing coating on pharyngeal walls

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrect use without instrumental confirmation

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation includes specific pharyngeal findings.

Ancillary Codes

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

Sequelae of cerebrovascular disease

I69.3
Use as primary code for post-stroke dysphagia cases.

Differential Codes

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

Esophageal dysphagia

K22.82
Use when manometry confirms esophageal dysmotility.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Pharyngeal Dysphagia to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R13.13.

Impact

Clinical: Inaccurate diagnosis and treatment planning., Regulatory: Potential for audit and compliance issues., Financial: Reduced reimbursement due to unspecified coding.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure detailed documentation of swallowing phase., Use instrumental evaluations to confirm findings.

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to lower reimbursement rates., Compliance: Non-compliance with specificity requirements., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of clinical data.

Mitigation Strategy

Query for specific phase documentation.

Impact

Using unspecified codes when specific phase is documented.

Mitigation Strategy

Always verify and document the specific phase of dysphagia.

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 Pharyngeal Dysphagia, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Pharyngeal Dysphagia

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

Acute Care Evaluation

Specialty: Speech-Language Pathology

Required Elements

  • Subjective swallowing complaints
  • Objective instrumental findings
  • Assessment and plan

Example Documentation

**Subjective**: Reports choking on thin liquids. **Objective**: VFSS shows pharyngeal residue. **Assessment**: R13.13 Dysphagia, pharyngeal phase. **Plan**: Speech therapy consult.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient has trouble swallowing.
Good Documentation Example
VFSS shows 50% pharyngeal residue with thin liquids.
Explanation
The good example provides specific instrumental findings supporting the diagnosis.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Pharyngeal Dysphagia? Ask your questions below.

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