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ICD-10 Coding for Clonic Seizures(G40.40x, G40.111)

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

Also known as:

Generalized Clonic SeizuresFocal Clonic Seizures

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Clonic Seizures

G40.0-G40.9Primary Range

Epilepsy and recurrent seizures

This range includes codes for different types of epilepsy and seizures, including clonic seizures.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
G40.40xOther generalized epilepsy, intractableUse for recurrent generalized clonic seizures with treatment failure.
  • EEG showing generalized polyspike-wave discharges
  • Documentation of treatment failure with ≥2 AEDs
G40.111Localization-related symptomatic simple partial seizures, intractableUse for focal clonic seizures that persist despite adequate AED trials.
  • Video-EEG confirming focal onset
  • Documentation of ≥2 failed AEDs

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 clonic seizures

Essential facts and insights about Clonic Seizures

The ICD-10 code for generalized clonic seizures is G40.40x, while focal clonic seizures are coded as G40.111 if intractable.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for clonic seizures

Other generalized epilepsy, intractable
Non-billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Generalized clonic seizures with failed treatment

Applicable To

  • Recurrent generalized clonic seizures with treatment failure

Excludes

  • Focal clonic seizures

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • EEG showing generalized polyspike-wave discharges
  • Documentation of treatment failure with ≥2 AEDs

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly coding as focal seizures

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies intractability and EEG findings.

Ancillary Codes

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

Post-traumatic seizures

R56.1
Use if clonic activity follows head injury.

Noncompliance with medication regimen

Z91.13-
Required if seizures recur due to medication nonadherence.

Differential Codes

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

Localization-related symptomatic simple partial seizures, not intractable

G40.101
Use for focal clonic activity without impaired awareness.

Other generalized epilepsy, intractable

G40.40x
Use for generalized clonic seizures with treatment failure.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Clonic Seizures to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code G40.40x.

Impact

Clinical: Misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment plans., Regulatory: Potential audit issues., Financial: Incorrect billing and reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Use specific terminology like 'clonic jerks'., Document EEG and AED response.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment leading to potential underpayment., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data affecting patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Use G40.111 if intractable or G40.101 if drug-responsive.

Impact

Misclassification of seizure type can lead to incorrect coding.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure detailed documentation and use of EEG findings.

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 Clonic Seizures, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Clonic Seizures

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

Intractable Focal Clonic Seizures

Specialty: Neurology

Required Elements

  • Seizure description
  • EEG findings
  • AED response
  • MRI/CT results

Example Documentation

Clonic jerking isolated to right hand (2 Hz) with preserved awareness. EEG: Left central spike-wave. Failed levetiracetam and lacosamide.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient had shaking episodes.
Good Documentation Example
Bilateral rhythmic clonic jerks at 1-2 Hz lasting 90 seconds, EEG showing generalized polyspike-wave discharges.
Explanation
The good example provides specific clinical details and EEG findings necessary for accurate coding.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Clonic Seizures? Ask your questions below.

Ask about any ICD-10 CM code, or paste a medical note

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