ICD-10 Coding for Paraplegia(G82.10, G82.11, G82.12)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Paraplegia. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Paraplegia
G82.10-G82.12Primary Range
Paraplegia and quadriplegia
This range covers the primary codes for paraplegia, distinguishing between unspecified, incomplete, and complete paraplegia.
Injury of lumbar and sacral spinal cord
These codes are used to specify the level of spinal cord injury that may result in paraplegia.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| G82.10 | Paraplegia, unspecified | Use when documentation does not specify completeness or level of paraplegia. |
|
| G82.11 | Incomplete paraplegia | Use when there is documented incomplete loss of motor or sensory function. |
|
| G82.12 | Complete paraplegia | Use when there is documented complete loss of motor and sensory function. |
|
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 complete paraplegia
Essential facts and insights about Paraplegia
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for paraplegia
Decision Criteria
documentation Criteria
- Lack of specificity in documentation
Applicable To
- Unspecified paraplegia
Excludes
- Functional quadriplegia (R53.2)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Clinical documentation of paraplegia without specification of completeness or level
Code-Specific Risks
- Risk of under-coding if more specific information is available
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies the level and completeness of paraplegia when possible.
G82.11 - Incomplete paraplegia
Use when there is documented incomplete loss of motor or sensory function.
Applicable To
- Partial paraplegia
Excludes
- Functional quadriplegia (R53.2)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documentation of partial preservation of sensory or motor function below the level of injury
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation specifies the degree of motor and sensory preservation.
G82.12 - Complete paraplegia
Use when there is documented complete loss of motor and sensory function.
Applicable To
- Total paraplegia
Excludes
- Functional quadriplegia (R53.2)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documentation of complete loss of motor and sensory function below the level of injury
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation specifies the complete loss of function.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Injury of unspecified level of lumbar spinal cord, initial encounter
S34.109ADifferential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Paraplegia to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code G82.10.
Impact
Clinical: Inaccurate treatment planning, Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards, Financial: Potential for denied claims
Mitigation Strategy
Include detailed neurological assessments, Ensure imaging results are documented
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to lower reimbursement rates, Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines, Data Quality: Decreased accuracy of health records
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation specifies completeness and level of paraplegia.
Impact
Risk of audits due to lack of specificity in paraplegia documentation.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure thorough documentation of neurological exams and imaging.
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 Paraplegia, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Paraplegia
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Paraplegia. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Neurological assessment for paraplegia
Specialty: NeurologyRequired Elements
- Motor and sensory examination
- Imaging results
- Functional impact assessment
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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