ICD-10 Coding for Foot Drop(M21.37x, G57.3)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Foot Drop. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Foot Drop
M21.37Primary Range
Acquired foot deformities
Primary range for acquired foot drop without neurological cause.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| M21.37x | Acquired foot drop | Use when foot drop is acquired without a neurological cause. |
|
| G57.3 | Lesion of lateral popliteal nerve | Use when foot drop is due to peroneal nerve injury. |
|
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 foot drop
Essential facts and insights about Foot Drop
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for foot drop
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Acquired foot drop without neurological cause
Applicable To
- Acquired foot drop
Excludes
- Congenital foot drop
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documentation of acquired foot drop
- Physical exam showing no active dorsiflexion
Code-Specific Risks
- Using unspecified laterality codes
Coding Notes
- Ensure laterality is specified.
G57.3 - Lesion of lateral popliteal nerve
Use when foot drop is due to peroneal nerve injury.
Applicable To
- Peroneal nerve injury
Excludes
- Central causes of foot drop
Clinical Validation Requirements
- EMG/NCS confirming peroneal neuropathy
Coding Notes
Document nerve injury specifics.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Monoparesis of lower limb
G83.81Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Foot Drop to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M21.37x.
Impact
Clinical: Impacts treatment planning., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Use documentation templates, Educate providers on specificity
Impact
Reimbursement: May affect DRG assignment., Compliance: Non-compliance with specificity requirements., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Query provider for specific laterality.
Impact
Lack of specificity can lead to audits.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure all documentation specifies laterality and cause.
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 Foot Drop, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Foot Drop
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Foot Drop. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Traumatic Peroneal Injury
Specialty: NeurologyRequired Elements
- Cause of foot drop
- Laterality
- Physical exam findings
- EMG results
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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