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ICD-10 Coding for Peripheral Vertigo(H81.1, H81.2)

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

Also known as:

Benign Paroxysmal Positional VertigoVestibular NeuritisLabyrinthitis

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Peripheral Vertigo

H81.0-H81.3Primary Range

Disorders of vestibular function

This range includes codes for peripheral vertigo conditions such as BPPV and vestibular neuritis.

Dizziness and giddiness

Used for symptoms of dizziness when a specific cause is not identified.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
H81.1Benign paroxysmal vertigoUse when BPPV is confirmed by positional testing such as Dix-Hallpike.
  • Positive Dix-Hallpike test
  • Episodic vertigo triggered by head movement
H81.2Vestibular neuronitisUse when vestibular neuritis is diagnosed based on clinical findings and VNG results.
  • Sudden onset of vertigo
  • Unilateral vestibular hypofunction on VNG

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 peripheral vertigo

Essential facts and insights about Peripheral Vertigo

The ICD-10 code for peripheral vertigo, specifically BPPV, is H81.1x, with specific codes for laterality.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for peripheral vertigo

Benign paroxysmal vertigo
Non-billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Positive Dix-Hallpike test

documentation Criteria

  • Detailed description of vertigo episodes and triggers

Applicable To

  • BPPV
  • Positional vertigo

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Positive Dix-Hallpike test
  • Episodic vertigo triggered by head movement

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misdiagnosis without positional testing
  • Confusion with central vertigo

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation includes specific test results and clinical findings.

Ancillary Codes

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

Dizziness and giddiness

R42
Use when dizziness is a symptom but the specific cause is not confirmed.

Tinnitus

H93.1
Use if tinnitus is present as a symptom.

Differential Codes

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

Vertigo of central origin

H81.4
Presence of central neurological signs such as skew deviation or vertical nystagmus.

Labyrinthitis

H83.0
Presence of hearing loss or tinnitus alongside vertigo.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Peripheral Vertigo to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code H81.1.

Impact

Clinical: Misdiagnosis or inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure detailed documentation of symptoms and test results., Use specific ICD-10 codes.

Impact

Reimbursement: Potential claim denial due to lack of clinical validation., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure Dix-Hallpike or equivalent test is documented before coding.

Impact

Risk of audit if diagnosis lacks specificity or supporting documentation.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure all diagnoses are supported by detailed clinical documentation and test results.

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

Documentation Templates for Peripheral Vertigo

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

BPPV Diagnosis

Specialty: Neurology

Required Elements

  • Patient history
  • Dix-Hallpike test results
  • Description of vertigo episodes

Example Documentation

Patient presents with episodic vertigo triggered by head movement. Dix-Hallpike test positive on the right side.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient reports dizziness.
Good Documentation Example
Patient experiences vertigo lasting 30 seconds triggered by head movement, positive Dix-Hallpike on right.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details and test results, supporting the diagnosis.

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

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