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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesG51.32

G51.32

Billable

Clonic hemifacial spasm, left

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/05/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 G51.32 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of clonic hemifacial spasm, left.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Clonic hemifacial spasm is characterized by involuntary, intermittent contractions of the muscles on one side of the face, specifically the left side in this case. This condition is often associated with irritation or compression of the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII), which can occur due to various factors such as vascular compression, tumors, or demyelinating diseases. The spasms can lead to significant discomfort and social embarrassment for patients, as they may affect facial expressions and speech. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough clinical examination, patient history, and may include imaging studies to identify any underlying causes. Treatment options may include medications such as muscle relaxants, botulinum toxin injections, or surgical interventions to relieve nerve compression. Understanding the pathophysiology of cranial nerve disorders is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiation from other facial nerve disorders
  • Need for precise documentation of laterality (left side)
  • Potential overlap with other neurological conditions
  • Variability in treatment approaches and their documentation

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of symptoms and treatment
  • Failure to specify laterality
  • Misdiagnosis or coding of similar conditions
  • Lack of imaging or clinical evidence to support diagnosis

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed neurological examination findings, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with facial spasms, history of facial nerve injury, or post-surgical complications.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of the onset, frequency, and duration of spasms.

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Assessment of facial nerve function, surgical notes if applicable, and follow-up care documentation.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with facial nerve compression due to tumors or vascular issues.

Billing Considerations

Document any surgical interventions and their outcomes.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use G51.32 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, G51
  • 32 should be used when the condition is specifically identified as clonic hemifacial spasm on the left side
  • It is important to document the clinical findings that support this diagnosis and to rule out other conditions that may present similarly

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use G51.32 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

64612CPT Code

Chemodenervation of facial muscles

Clinical Scenario

Used for treatment of hemifacial spasm.

Documentation Requirements

Document the number of units injected and the specific muscles treated.

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngologists and neurologists should ensure proper coding based on treatment protocols.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like clonic hemifacial spasm, improving the accuracy of patient records and treatment plans.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like clonic hemifacial spasm, improving the accuracy of patient records and treatment plans.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like clonic hemifacial spasm, improving the accuracy of patient records and treatment plans.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Academy of Neurology

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Academy of Neurology

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary cause of clonic hemifacial spasm?

The primary cause is often vascular compression of the facial nerve, but it can also be due to tumors or demyelinating diseases.