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ICD-10 Coding for Paraparesis(G82.2, I69.351)

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

Also known as:

Partial paralysis of lower limbsLower limb weakness

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Paraparesis

G82.2Primary Range

Paraplegia and paraparesis, unspecified

Primary range for coding paraparesis when the cause is unspecified or chronic.

Sequelae of cerebrovascular disease

Used when paraparesis is a residual effect of a stroke.

Muscle weakness (generalized)

Used when paraparesis is not confirmed and only generalized weakness is documented.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
G82.2Paraplegia and paraparesis, unspecifiedUse when paraparesis is present but the underlying cause is unspecified or chronic.
  • Muscle strength ≤3/5 in both legs
  • Hyperreflexia
  • Spasticity
I69.351Hemiplegia and hemiparesis following cerebral infarction affecting right dominant sideUse for paraparesis as a residual effect of a stroke.
  • MRI-confirmed infarct
  • Unilateral or bilateral lower extremity weakness

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 paraparesis

Essential facts and insights about Paraparesis

The ICD-10 code for paraparesis is G82.2, used when the cause is unspecified or chronic.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for paraparesis

Paraplegia and paraparesis, unspecified
Non-billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of muscle strength ≤3/5 in both legs and hyperreflexia.

coding Criteria

  • Use when no specific underlying cause is documented.

Applicable To

  • Paraparesis, unspecified

Excludes

  • Congenital cerebral palsy
  • Functional quadriplegia

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Muscle strength ≤3/5 in both legs
  • Hyperreflexia
  • Spasticity

Code-Specific Risks

  • Risk of using this code without specifying an underlying cause when one is known.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies the cause of paraparesis if known.

Ancillary Codes

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

Neurologic neglect syndrome

R29.5
Use to document additional neurologic symptoms associated with paraparesis.

Differential Codes

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

Muscle weakness (generalized)

M62.81
Use when only generalized weakness is documented without specific findings of paraparesis.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Paraparesis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code G82.2.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to misinterpretation of the patient's condition., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential loss of reimbursement due to incorrect coding.

Mitigation Strategy

Use precise terminology in clinical notes.

Impact

Reimbursement: May result in lower reimbursement if not linked to a specific etiology., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines requiring specificity., Data Quality: Reduces the accuracy of clinical data.

Mitigation Strategy

Always document and code the underlying cause if known.

Impact

Risk of audits due to lack of specificity in documenting paraparesis.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure all documentation includes specific etiology and severity.

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

Documentation Templates for Paraparesis

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

Paraparesis due to spinal cord injury

Specialty: Neurology

Required Elements

  • Etiology
  • Muscle strength assessment
  • Functional impact
  • Treatment plan

Example Documentation

Patient presents with spastic paraparesis due to T6 spinal cord lesion, ASIA Impairment Scale C.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient has leg weakness.
Good Documentation Example
Patient exhibits spastic paraparesis due to T6 spinal cord lesion, ASIA Impairment Scale C.
Explanation
The good example specifies the cause and severity of paraparesis.

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

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