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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesR49.9

R49.9

Unspecified voice and resonance disorder

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/11/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 R49.9 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of unspecified voice and resonance disorder.

Key Diagnostic Point:

R49.9 refers to an unspecified voice and resonance disorder characterized by abnormalities in voice quality, pitch, loudness, or resonance that cannot be classified under more specific codes. Symptoms may include hoarseness, breathiness, or changes in vocal pitch, which can arise from various underlying conditions affecting the larynx, vocal cords, or neurological function. Common causes include laryngitis, vocal cord nodules, or neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease. The disorder may present with signs such as altered voice quality, difficulty in phonation, or resonance changes, which can be assessed through clinical examination and laryngoscopy. Laboratory findings may include imaging studies or voice assessments to evaluate the structure and function of the vocal apparatus. Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective management and treatment, as the underlying cause can significantly influence the therapeutic approach.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in symptoms and underlying causes
  • Need for thorough clinical evaluation
  • Potential overlap with other voice disorders
  • Documentation of specific symptoms required

Audit Risk Factors

  • Insufficient documentation of symptoms
  • Failure to specify underlying conditions
  • Inconsistent coding with clinical findings
  • Lack of follow-up documentation

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Internal Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of voice changes, associated symptoms, and any prior treatments.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with chronic hoarseness or voice changes without a clear diagnosis.

Billing Considerations

Consider referral to ENT for further evaluation if symptoms persist.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Acute assessment of voice changes, including onset, duration, and associated respiratory symptoms.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Acute laryngitis or trauma to the vocal cords.

Billing Considerations

Rapid assessment is crucial; consider airway management if stridor or respiratory distress is present.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use R49.9 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the code is supported by clinical documentation and that all relevant symptoms are recorded

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use R49.9 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related CPT Codes

92507CPT Code

Treatment of speech, language, voice, communication, and/or auditory processing disorder

Clinical Scenario

Used in conjunction with R49.9 for therapy sessions addressing voice disorders.

Documentation Requirements

Document the specific voice issues being addressed and the treatment plan.

Specialty Considerations

Speech therapy may be necessary for rehabilitation in cases of chronic voice disorders.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of voice disorders, improving the ability to track and manage these conditions effectively.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of voice disorders, improving the ability to track and manage these conditions effectively.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of voice disorders, improving the ability to track and manage these conditions effectively.

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

When should R49.9 be used?

R49.9 should be used when a patient presents with voice and resonance disorders that do not fit into more specific categories, and when the underlying cause has not been determined.