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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH02.236

H02.236

Billable

Paralytic lagophthalmos left eye, unspecified eyelid

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/06/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 H02.236 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of paralytic lagophthalmos left eye, unspecified eyelid.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Paralytic lagophthalmos of the left eye, unspecified eyelid, is characterized by the inability to fully close the eyelid due to paralysis of the facial muscles innervated by the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII). This condition can result from various etiologies, including Bell's palsy, stroke, or trauma. The anatomy involved includes the eyelids, which consist of the upper and lower eyelids, and the orbicularis oculi muscle, responsible for eyelid closure. The lacrimal system may also be affected, leading to inadequate tear distribution and potential exposure keratitis. Disease progression can lead to complications such as corneal dryness, irritation, and infection if not properly managed. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough clinical examination, patient history, and possibly imaging studies to assess underlying causes. Treatment may involve protective measures for the eye, such as lubricating eye drops, eyelid weights, or surgical intervention to improve eyelid closure.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires understanding of facial nerve function and eyelid anatomy.
  • Treatment complexity: May involve multidisciplinary approaches including ophthalmology and neurology.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed clinical notes are essential to support the diagnosis.
  • Coding specificity: Requires precise coding to differentiate from other eyelid disorders.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misidentification of the affected eyelid or misclassification of the condition.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete patient history or lack of detailed examination notes.
  • Billing challenges: Potential denials due to insufficient evidence of medical necessity.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Ophthalmology

Documentation Requirements

Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply

Common Clinical Scenarios

Various clinical presentations within this specialty area

Billing Considerations

Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply

Common Clinical Scenarios

Various clinical presentations within this specialty area

Billing Considerations

Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

Paralytic lagophthalmos can significantly affect a patient's quality of life, leading to discomfort and potential complications such as corneal abrasions. Understanding the epidemiology of this condition is crucial, as it may be more prevalent in populations with higher incidences of stroke or neurological disorders. Effective management can improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare utilization by preventing complications.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Paralytic lagophthalmos can significantly affect a patient's quality of life, leading to discomfort and potential complications such as corneal abrasions. Understanding the epidemiology of this condition is crucial, as it may be more prevalent in populations with higher incidences of stroke or neurological disorders. Effective management can improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare utilization by preventing complications.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include verifying the medical necessity of interventions such as lubricating drops or surgical procedures. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or failure to demonstrate the impact of the condition on the patient's quality of life. Best practices include ensuring all clinical notes are detailed and that the treatment plan aligns with the diagnosis.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10 Official Guidelines for H00-H99
  • •
    Clinical Documentation Requirements

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10 Official Guidelines for H00-H99
  • •
    Clinical Documentation Requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

What specific conditions are covered by H02.236?

H02.236 covers paralytic lagophthalmos specifically affecting the left eye, which may arise from conditions like Bell's palsy, stroke, or traumatic facial nerve injury. It is essential to differentiate it from other eyelid disorders such as ptosis or mechanical lagophthalmos.

When should H02.236 be used instead of related codes?

H02.236 should be used when the patient presents with paralysis affecting the left eyelid specifically, and other causes of eyelid dysfunction have been ruled out. It is crucial to document the clinical findings that support this diagnosis.

What documentation supports H02.236?

Documentation should include a comprehensive eye examination, details of the patient's medical history, neurological assessment findings, and any imaging studies performed. Clear notes on the impact of the condition on the patient's daily life and treatment plan are also necessary.