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ICD-10 Coding for Hemiplegia and Hemiparesis(I69.351, I69.354)

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

Also known as:

Unilateral paralysisPartial paralysis

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Hemiplegia and Hemiparesis

I69.3Primary Range

Sequelae of cerebral infarction

This range includes codes for hemiplegia and hemiparesis as sequelae of cerebrovascular disease.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
I69.351Hemiplegia and hemiparesis following cerebral infarction affecting right dominant sideUse when documenting right-sided hemiparesis post-cerebral infarction in a right-handed patient.
  • MRI showing old right MCA infarct
  • Neurological exam showing right-sided weakness
I69.354Hemiplegia and hemiparesis following cerebral infarction affecting left non-dominant sideUse when documenting left-sided hemiparesis post-cerebral infarction in a left-handed or ambidextrous patient.
  • CT evidence of left parietal infarct
  • Neurological exam documenting left-sided spasticity

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 hemiplegia post-stroke

Essential facts and insights about Hemiplegia and Hemiparesis

The ICD-10 code for hemiplegia following a stroke is I69.351 for right dominant side and I69.354 for left non-dominant side.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for hemiplegia and hemiparesis

Hemiplegia and hemiparesis following cerebral infarction affecting right dominant side
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Right-sided weakness linked to past stroke

documentation Criteria

  • Specify dominance and link to past CVA

Applicable To

  • Right-sided weakness due to past stroke

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • MRI showing old right MCA infarct
  • Neurological exam showing right-sided weakness

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly using acute stroke codes for resolved cases

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies laterality and dominance.

Ancillary Codes

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

Dysphagia

R13.11
Use when dysphagia is present as a sequelae of the stroke.

Differential Codes

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

Hemiplegia and hemiparesis following cerebral infarction affecting left non-dominant side

I69.354
Use for left-sided weakness in non-dominant patients.

Hemiplegia and hemiparesis following cerebral infarction affecting right dominant side

I69.351
Use for right-sided weakness in dominant patients.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Hemiplegia and Hemiparesis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code I69.351.

Impact

Clinical: Leads to undercoding of current conditions., Regulatory: May result in audit findings for inaccurate documentation., Financial: Loss of potential reimbursement due to lower RAF scores.

Mitigation Strategy

Always assess and document current deficits, Link deficits to past CVA

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to claim denials., Compliance: May trigger audits due to inappropriate code usage., Data Quality: Affects accuracy of patient records and risk adjustment.

Mitigation Strategy

Use I69 codes for sequelae of cerebrovascular disease.

Impact

Using acute stroke codes for resolved conditions.

Mitigation Strategy

Educate providers on proper use of I69 codes for sequelae.

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 Hemiplegia and Hemiparesis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Hemiplegia and Hemiparesis

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

Neurology Follow-Up

Specialty: Neurology

Required Elements

  • Assessment of hemiparesis
  • Link to past CVA
  • Specify laterality and dominance

Example Documentation

Assessment: Hemiplegia and hemiparesis following cerebral infarction affecting right dominant side (I69.351). Status: Persistent right arm flexor synergy.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Stroke with arm weakness
Good Documentation Example
Residual right dominant hemiparesis from 2022 left MCA infarction: RUE strength 3/5, requires assist for utensil use
Explanation
The good example specifies the side, dominance, and links to the past CVA.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Hemiplegia and Hemiparesis? Ask your questions below.

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