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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesG57.11

G57.11

Billable

Meralgia paresthetica, right lower limb

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

Code Description

ICD-10 G57.11 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of meralgia paresthetica, right lower limb.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Meralgia paresthetica is a condition characterized by the compression of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve, which supplies sensation to the skin of the outer thigh. This condition typically presents with symptoms such as tingling, numbness, and burning pain in the outer thigh, particularly on the right side in this case. The entrapment often occurs as the nerve passes under the inguinal ligament, which can be exacerbated by factors such as obesity, tight clothing, or prolonged sitting. Diagnosis is primarily clinical, supported by patient history and physical examination. Nerve conduction studies may be utilized to assess the function of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve and rule out other neuropathies. Treatment often involves conservative measures such as weight loss, physical therapy, and avoidance of aggravating factors. In some cases, corticosteroid injections or surgical intervention may be necessary if conservative management fails. Understanding the underlying mechanisms of nerve entrapment and the specific anatomical pathways involved is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires understanding of nerve anatomy and entrapment syndromes
  • Differentiation from other neuropathies and conditions
  • Potential for overlapping symptoms with other diagnoses
  • Need for precise documentation of symptoms and treatment

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of symptoms and treatment
  • Failure to specify laterality
  • Misdiagnosis due to overlapping symptoms with other conditions
  • Lack of supporting diagnostic tests such as nerve conduction studies

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed neurological examination findings, including sensory deficits and pain description.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with unilateral thigh pain and sensory changes.

Billing Considerations

Ensure documentation includes the patient's history of risk factors such as obesity or tight clothing.

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Assessment of musculoskeletal factors contributing to nerve compression.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with hip or pelvic issues presenting with thigh symptoms.

Billing Considerations

Document any physical therapy interventions or surgical options considered.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use G57.11 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, G57
  • 11 should be used when the condition is specifically diagnosed as meralgia paresthetica affecting the right lower limb
  • Documentation must clearly indicate the symptoms and any diagnostic tests performed

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use G57.11 When
  • Exclusion criteria include other neuropathies affecting the same area

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

959.9CPT Code

Nerve conduction study

Clinical Scenario

Used to assess the function of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve in patients with suspected meralgia paresthetica.

Documentation Requirements

Document the rationale for the nerve conduction study and the specific symptoms being evaluated.

Specialty Considerations

Neurologists should ensure that the study is performed in conjunction with a thorough clinical evaluation.

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 meralgia paresthetica, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. The inclusion of laterality in coding helps in better tracking and management of the condition.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like meralgia paresthetica, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. The inclusion of laterality in coding helps in better tracking and management of the condition.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like meralgia paresthetica, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. The inclusion of laterality in coding helps in better tracking and management of the condition.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Academy of Neurology

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Academy of Neurology

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of meralgia paresthetica?

Common symptoms include tingling, numbness, and burning pain in the outer thigh, particularly on the affected side.

How is meralgia paresthetica diagnosed?

Diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on patient history and physical examination, often supplemented by nerve conduction studies.

What are the treatment options for meralgia paresthetica?

Treatment options include conservative measures such as weight loss, physical therapy, and avoiding aggravating factors. In some cases, corticosteroid injections or surgery may be necessary.