ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesJ38.6

J38.6

Stenosis of larynx

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

Code Description

ICD-10 J38.6 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of stenosis of larynx.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Stenosis of the larynx refers to the narrowing of the laryngeal airway, which can significantly impact respiratory function. The larynx, located in the neck, plays a crucial role in breathing, phonation, and protecting the airway during swallowing. Clinical presentation may include stridor, hoarseness, difficulty breathing, and a sensation of throat tightness. Causes of laryngeal stenosis can include chronic inflammation, trauma, intubation injury, or congenital anomalies. Disease progression may lead to increased respiratory distress and potential airway obstruction, necessitating timely intervention. Diagnostic considerations involve a thorough history and physical examination, laryngoscopy, and imaging studies to assess the degree of stenosis and identify underlying causes. Treatment options may range from conservative management, such as corticosteroids for inflammation, to surgical interventions like laryngeal dilation or resection, depending on severity and etiology.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires specialized evaluation techniques such as laryngoscopy.
  • Treatment complexity: May involve both medical and surgical management.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed clinical notes are essential to justify the diagnosis and treatment.
  • Coding specificity: Requires accurate coding to differentiate from other laryngeal conditions.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misclassification with other respiratory conditions.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete records regarding the severity and cause of stenosis.
  • Billing challenges: Potential denials if medical necessity is not clearly documented.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

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

Pulmonology

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 CPT Codes

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

Laryngeal stenosis can significantly affect patient quality of life, leading to difficulties in communication and breathing. Its prevalence in populations with a history of intubation or chronic respiratory conditions highlights the need for effective management strategies. Understanding the epidemiology of laryngeal stenosis can inform public health initiatives aimed at reducing risk factors and improving patient outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Laryngeal stenosis can significantly affect patient quality of life, leading to difficulties in communication and breathing. Its prevalence in populations with a history of intubation or chronic respiratory conditions highlights the need for effective management strategies. Understanding the epidemiology of laryngeal stenosis can inform public health initiatives aimed at reducing risk factors and improving patient outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement may depend on demonstrating medical necessity, particularly for surgical interventions. Common denials can occur if the documentation does not clearly outline the severity of the stenosis or the rationale for treatment. Coders should ensure that all relevant clinical details are included in the patient’s record to facilitate proper billing and reduce the risk of audits.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10 Official Guidelines for J00-J99
  • •
    Clinical Documentation Requirements

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10 Official Guidelines for J00-J99
  • •
    Clinical Documentation Requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

What specific conditions are covered by J38.6?

J38.6 covers laryngeal stenosis due to various causes, including post-intubation scarring, congenital malformations, and inflammatory conditions. It is essential to document the underlying cause for accurate coding.

When should J38.6 be used instead of related codes?

J38.6 should be used when there is a confirmed diagnosis of laryngeal stenosis specifically, as opposed to other laryngeal disorders like laryngitis or laryngeal tumors, which have distinct codes.

What documentation supports J38.6?

Documentation should include a detailed clinical history, results from laryngoscopy, imaging studies, and any treatment plans. Clear notes on the severity and impact on breathing are crucial.