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ICD-10 Coding for Spasticity(G25.82, G80.1)

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

Also known as:

Muscle SpasticityHypertonia

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Spasticity

G25-G26Primary Range

Other extrapyramidal and movement disorders

This range includes codes for spasticity and related movement disorders.

Cerebral palsy and other paralytic syndromes

This range includes codes for cerebral palsy, which can be associated with spasticity.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
G25.82SpasticityUse when spasticity is present without a more specific underlying condition identified.
  • Modified Ashworth Scale score
  • EMG showing velocity-dependent hyperreflexia
  • MRI showing CNS lesions
G80.1Spastic diplegic cerebral palsyUse when spasticity is due to spastic diplegic cerebral palsy.
  • MRI confirming spastic diplegia
  • Clinical history of bilateral lower extremity involvement

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 spasticity

Essential facts and insights about Spasticity

The ICD-10 code for unspecified spasticity is G25.82, used when no specific underlying condition is identified.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for spasticity

Spasticity
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of velocity-dependent muscle resistance

documentation Criteria

  • Documented Modified Ashworth Scale score

Applicable To

  • Unspecified spasticity

Excludes

  • Spasticity due to cerebral palsy (G80.-)
  • Spasticity due to multiple sclerosis (G35)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Modified Ashworth Scale score
  • EMG showing velocity-dependent hyperreflexia
  • MRI showing CNS lesions

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly using as a primary diagnosis without identifying an underlying cause.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation supports the use of G25.82 by detailing spasticity characteristics and any underlying conditions.

Ancillary Codes

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

Hypertonia

R29.4
Use to describe increased muscle tone when spasticity is part of a broader clinical picture.

Differential Codes

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

Torticollis

G24.3
Torticollis involves involuntary neck muscle contractions, not generalized spasticity.

Ataxic cerebral palsy

G80.4
Ataxic CP involves coordination issues rather than spasticity.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Spasticity to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code G25.82.

Impact

Clinical: Inaccurate treatment planning., Regulatory: Potential for audit and compliance issues., Financial: Loss of reimbursement due to incorrect coding.

Mitigation Strategy

Always assess and document potential underlying conditions., Use diagnostic tests to confirm etiology.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect sequencing can lead to denied claims or reduced reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines may result in audits., Data Quality: Inaccurate data collection affecting patient records and statistics.

Mitigation Strategy

Always code the underlying condition first if known.

Impact

Failure to sequence underlying conditions before spasticity can trigger audits.

Mitigation Strategy

Educate coding staff on proper sequencing rules.

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

Documentation Templates for Spasticity

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

Spasticity due to multiple sclerosis

Specialty: Neurology

Required Elements

  • Underlying condition
  • Spasticity severity
  • Affected muscles
  • Functional impact
  • Treatment response

Example Documentation

Patient exhibits grade 3 spasticity in the right quadriceps due to MS, limiting mobility. Treatment with baclofen shows 20% improvement.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient has spasticity.
Good Documentation Example
Grade 3 spasticity in right quadriceps per Modified Ashworth Scale, secondary to MS, limiting ambulation.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details about the severity, location, and underlying cause of spasticity.

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

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