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ICD-10 Coding for Left Hemiplegia(I69.354)

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

Also known as:

Left HemiparesisLeft-Sided Paralysis

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Left Hemiplegia

I69.3Primary Range

Sequelae of cerebrovascular disease

This range includes codes for hemiplegia and hemiparesis following cerebrovascular disease, specifically for residual effects.

Cerebral infarction

Used for acute cerebral infarction events, not typically used for residuals post-discharge.

Personal history of transient ischemic attack (TIA), and cerebral infarction without residual deficits

Used only when there are no residual deficits from a past stroke.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for left hemiplegia

Essential facts and insights about Left Hemiplegia

The ICD-10 code for left hemiplegia following cerebral infarction affecting the non-dominant side is I69.354.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for left hemiplegia

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

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Imaging confirms right hemisphere infarct with left-sided weakness

documentation Criteria

  • Documentation specifies non-dominant side

Applicable To

  • Left-sided hemiplegia
  • Left-sided hemiparesis

Excludes

  • Acute cerebral infarction (I63.9)
  • History of stroke without residuals (Z86.73)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Imaging reports (CT/MRI) confirming prior cerebral infarction
  • Neurological exams showing motor deficits
  • Documentation of timeline (residuals post-CVA)

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly coding as dominant side without confirmation
  • Using acute stroke codes post-discharge

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies non-dominant side and confirms residuals.

Ancillary Codes

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

Cerebral infarction, unspecified

I63.9
Use if an active stroke coexists with residuals, though rare.

Differential Codes

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

Personal history of TIA and cerebral infarction without residual deficits

Z86.73
Use only when there are no residual deficits from a past stroke.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Left Hemiplegia to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code I69.354.

Impact

Clinical: Misrepresentation of patient's condition., Regulatory: Potential for audit discrepancies., Financial: Incorrect reimbursement rates.

Mitigation Strategy

Always confirm and document dominance., Use templates to ensure completeness.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate patient records and risk adjustment.

Mitigation Strategy

Code I69.354 instead

Impact

Failure to specify can lead to incorrect coding.

Mitigation Strategy

Implement mandatory fields in EHR for laterality and dominance.

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

Documentation Templates for Left Hemiplegia

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

Follow-up for chronic residuals

Specialty: Neurology

Required Elements

  • History of present illness
  • Physical exam findings
  • Assessment and plan

Example Documentation

**HPI:** 65-year-old with history of 2020 right MCA infarct, presents for follow-up of residual left hemiplegia. Reports no improvement in left arm/leg strength. **Exam:** Motor: Left UE/LE 1/5 strength, spasticity noted. **Assessment:** 1. Hemiplegia following cerebral infarction affecting left non-dominant side (I69.354). **Plan:** Continue PT, consider baclofen.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient has left weakness from old stroke.
Good Documentation Example
Persistent left hemiplegia (non-dominant) secondary to cerebral infarction (2020). MRI shows chronic right MCA territory infarct.
Explanation
The good example specifies the non-dominant side and provides imaging confirmation, ensuring accurate coding.

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

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