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ICD-10 Coding for Critical Illness Myopathy(G72.81)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Critical Illness Myopathy. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

ICU-acquired weaknessCIM

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Critical Illness Myopathy

G70-G73Primary Range

Diseases of myoneural junction and muscle

This range includes codes for various myopathies, including critical illness myopathy.

Polyneuropathies and other disorders of the peripheral nervous system

This range includes codes for conditions like critical illness polyneuropathy, which must be differentiated from CIM.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for critical illness myopathy

Essential facts and insights about Critical Illness Myopathy

The ICD-10 code for critical illness myopathy is G72.81, used for patients with confirmed EMG findings of CIM.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for critical illness myopathy

Critical illness myopathy
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • EMG findings consistent with CIM

documentation Criteria

  • Detailed documentation of ICU stay and muscle weakness

Applicable To

  • ICU-acquired weakness

Excludes

  • Critical illness polyneuropathy (G62.81)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • EMG showing CMAP amplitudes <80% LLN in ≥2 motor nerves
  • Muscle biopsy showing myosin loss
  • Normal sensory nerve conduction studies

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification with other myopathies
  • Inadequate documentation of EMG findings

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation includes specific EMG findings and excludes other neuromuscular disorders.

Ancillary Codes

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

Sepsis, unspecified organism

A41.9
Use as the primary code when sepsis is the underlying cause of CIM.

Acute respiratory failure

J96.00
Use when respiratory failure is present and related to CIM.

Differential Codes

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

Critical illness polyneuropathy

G62.81
Presence of sensory nerve involvement on NCS differentiates CIP from CIM.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Critical Illness Myopathy to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code G72.81.

Impact

Clinical: Misdiagnosis of neuromuscular condition., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure EMG results are detailed in patient records., Train staff on documentation standards.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to reduced reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data affecting patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Differentiate based on EMG and NCS findings; CIM has normal sensory NCS.

Impact

Incomplete EMG documentation can lead to audit flags.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure all EMG results are fully documented and linked to CIM diagnosis.

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 Critical Illness Myopathy, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Critical Illness Myopathy

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Critical Illness Myopathy. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

ICU patient with muscle weakness

Specialty: Critical Care

Required Elements

  • ICU stay duration
  • EMG findings
  • Muscle biopsy results
  • Exclusion of other neuromuscular disorders

Example Documentation

Patient with sepsis-induced CIM, EMG shows CMAP 60% LLN, normal sensory NCS.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient weak after ICU stay.
Good Documentation Example
Patient with flaccid quadriparesis post-ICU, EMG confirms CIM with CMAP <80% LLN.
Explanation
The good example provides specific EMG findings and links weakness to CIM.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Critical Illness Myopathy? Ask your questions below.

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