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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesG81.91

G81.91

Billable

Hemiplegia, unspecified affecting right dominant side

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

Code Description

ICD-10 G81.91 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of hemiplegia, unspecified affecting right dominant side.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Hemiplegia is a condition characterized by paralysis of one side of the body, which can result from various neurological conditions, including stroke, traumatic brain injury, or cerebral palsy. In the case of G81.91, the hemiplegia affects the right dominant side, indicating that the individual is likely right-handed. This condition can lead to significant mobility impairments, affecting the patient's ability to perform daily activities independently. Patients may experience weakness, loss of coordination, and difficulty with balance, which can severely impact their quality of life. Rehabilitation often involves physical therapy, occupational therapy, and sometimes speech therapy, depending on the extent of the neurological damage. The unspecified nature of this code indicates that the exact cause of the hemiplegia is not documented, which can complicate treatment planning and prognosis. Understanding the underlying cause is crucial for effective management and rehabilitation strategies.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Unspecified nature of the condition can lead to ambiguity in documentation.
  • Variability in clinical presentation and severity among patients.
  • Potential overlap with other neurological conditions like cerebral palsy.
  • Need for comprehensive documentation to support the diagnosis.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the patient's dominant side.
  • Failure to specify the underlying cause of hemiplegia.
  • Lack of detailed treatment plans in the medical record.
  • Inconsistent coding practices among different providers.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed neurological examination findings, including motor function assessments and any imaging studies.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with sudden onset of weakness, post-stroke rehabilitation, or chronic conditions like cerebral palsy.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that the documentation clearly states the dominant side affected and any associated conditions.

Physical Therapy

Documentation Requirements

Therapy progress notes, functional assessments, and treatment plans tailored to the patient's hemiplegia.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Rehabilitation sessions focusing on mobility, strength training, and activities of daily living.

Billing Considerations

Document specific goals related to improving mobility and independence.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use G81.91 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the documentation supports the diagnosis of hemiplegia affecting the right dominant side
  • Include any relevant clinical findings and treatment plans

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use G81.91 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

97110CPT Code

Therapeutic exercises

Clinical Scenario

Used in rehabilitation for improving strength and mobility in hemiplegic patients.

Documentation Requirements

Document the specific exercises performed and the patient's response.

Specialty Considerations

Physical therapists should note progress towards functional goals.

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 hemiplegia, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better treatment planning.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like hemiplegia, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better treatment planning.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like hemiplegia, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better treatment planning.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between hemiplegia and hemiparesis?

Hemiplegia refers to complete paralysis of one side of the body, while hemiparesis indicates partial weakness on one side. Both conditions can result from similar neurological causes.