ICD-10 Coding for Arm Weakness(G83.3, M62.81, I69.331)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Arm Weakness. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Arm Weakness
Muscle weakness (generalized)
Used for generalized muscle weakness without a specific neurological cause.
I69.3Primary Range
Sequelae of cerebrovascular disease
Used for conditions resulting from a previous stroke, including arm 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| G83.3 | Monoplegia of upper limb | Use for paralysis of one limb, especially post-stroke. |
|
| M62.81 | Muscle weakness (generalized) | Use for generalized weakness without a specific neurological cause. |
|
| I69.331 | Monoplegia of upper limb following cerebral infarction | Use for chronic arm weakness following a 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 arm weakness
Essential facts and insights about Arm Weakness
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for arm weakness
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Confirmed CVA with unilateral arm weakness
documentation Criteria
- Documentation of muscle strength grading
Applicable To
- Monoparesis of arm
Excludes
- Hemiplegia (G81.-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- MRI or CT confirming CVA
- Muscle strength grading (MRC scale)
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification if not confirmed by imaging
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies 'monoparesis' and links to CVA.
M62.81 - Muscle weakness (generalized)
Use for generalized weakness without a specific neurological cause.
Applicable To
- Generalized muscle weakness
Excludes
- Localized muscle weakness (M62.8-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Normal EMG/NCV
- CK levels within normal range
Coding Notes
Avoid using when a specific neurological cause is documented.
I69.331 - Monoplegia of upper limb following cerebral infarction
Use for chronic arm weakness following a stroke.
Applicable To
- Residual weakness post-stroke
Excludes
- Acute stroke (I63.-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- History of stroke
- Current documentation of weakness
Coding Notes
Ensure stroke history is clearly documented.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Sequelae of cerebrovascular disease
I69.3Differential 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 Arm Weakness to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code G83.3.
Impact
Clinical: Inadequate clinical assessment, Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards, Financial: Potential for denied claims
Mitigation Strategy
Use MRC scale for muscle strength, Link weakness to etiology
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to reduced reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Use I69.331 for post-stroke weakness with documented history.
Impact
Using M62.81 instead of specific post-stroke codes.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation links weakness to stroke history.
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 Arm Weakness, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Arm Weakness
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Arm Weakness. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Post-stroke arm weakness
Specialty: NeurologyRequired Elements
- Patient history of stroke
- Current muscle strength grading
- Imaging results
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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