ICD-10 Coding for Bilateral Lower Extremity Weakness(M62.81, G82.20, I69.35-)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Bilateral Lower Extremity Weakness. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Bilateral Lower Extremity 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| M62.81 | Muscle weakness (generalized) | Use when muscle weakness is generalized and no specific cause is identified. |
|
| G82.20 | Paraplegia, unspecified | Use for paralysis of both legs not due to stroke. |
|
| I69.35- | Hemiplegia and hemiparesis following cerebrovascular disease | Use for 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 bilateral lower extremity weakness
Essential facts and insights about Bilateral Lower Extremity Weakness
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for bilateral lower extremity weakness
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Generalized weakness without focal deficits
Applicable To
- Generalized muscle weakness
Excludes
- Localized muscle weakness
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Physical exam showing decreased muscle strength
- Normal CK/aldolase levels
Code-Specific Risks
- Risk of undercoding if specific etiology is identified later.
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies 'generalized' to avoid confusion with localized weakness.
G82.20 - Paraplegia, unspecified
Use for paralysis of both legs not due to stroke.
Applicable To
- Paralysis of both legs
Excludes
- Paraplegia due to stroke
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Spinal imaging showing cord injury
- Neurological exam confirming paralysis
Coding Notes
Document the cause of paraplegia clearly to avoid misclassification.
I69.35- - Hemiplegia and hemiparesis following cerebrovascular disease
Use for weakness following a stroke.
Applicable To
- Post-stroke hemiparesis
Excludes
- Non-stroke related hemiparesis
Clinical Validation Requirements
- MRI showing stroke
- Clinical correlation with stroke history
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation links weakness to stroke.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Periodic paralysis
G72.3Differential 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 Bilateral Lower Extremity Weakness to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M62.81.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment plans., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document side affected, Use specific terms like 'right' or 'left'
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to lower reimbursement rates., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Use specific codes like I69.35- if stroke-related.
Impact
Using M62.81 when a more specific code is applicable.
Mitigation Strategy
Train staff on specific code usage and documentation requirements.
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 Bilateral Lower Extremity Weakness, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Bilateral Lower Extremity Weakness
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Bilateral Lower Extremity Weakness. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Post-stroke weakness evaluation
Specialty: NeurologyRequired Elements
- Muscle strength assessment
- Stroke history
- Imaging results
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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