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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesG51.31

G51.31

Billable

Clonic hemifacial spasm, right

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

Code Description

ICD-10 G51.31 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of clonic hemifacial spasm, right.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Clonic hemifacial spasm is a neurological condition characterized by involuntary muscle contractions on one side of the face, specifically the right side in this case. This condition is often caused by irritation or compression of the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII), which can occur due to various factors such as vascular compression, tumors, or multiple sclerosis. Patients may experience intermittent spasms that can be triggered by stress, fatigue, or certain facial movements. The spasms can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life, leading to social embarrassment and psychological distress. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough clinical examination, patient history, and may include imaging studies to identify any underlying causes. Treatment options may include medications, botulinum toxin injections, or surgical interventions aimed at relieving nerve compression. Accurate coding is essential for proper reimbursement and to ensure that the patient's condition is clearly communicated in the medical record.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between types of facial spasms
  • Identifying the specific side affected
  • Understanding the underlying causes of nerve irritation
  • Documenting the severity and frequency of spasms

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of symptoms and their frequency
  • Failure to specify the affected side
  • Lack of imaging or diagnostic tests to support the diagnosis
  • Misclassification of the type of facial spasm

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed neurological examination findings, patient history, and any imaging studies performed.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with unilateral facial spasms, history of facial nerve injury, or post-surgical complications.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that the documentation clearly states the nature of the spasms and any treatments attempted.

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Assessment of facial nerve function, any surgical interventions, and follow-up care.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with facial nerve compression due to tumors or vascular anomalies.

Billing Considerations

Document any surgical findings and the rationale for interventions performed.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use G51.31 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, G51
  • 31 should be used when the condition is specifically identified as clonic hemifacial spasm affecting the right side
  • It is important to document the clinical findings that support the diagnosis and any relevant treatments

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use G51.31 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

64612CPT Code

Injection, botulinum toxin type A

Clinical Scenario

Used for treatment of hemifacial spasm to reduce muscle contractions.

Documentation Requirements

Document the number of units injected and the specific muscles targeted.

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngologists and neurologists should ensure proper documentation of treatment efficacy.

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 clonic hemifacial spasm, improving the accuracy of patient records and reimbursement processes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like clonic hemifacial spasm, improving the accuracy of patient records and reimbursement processes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes.

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 primary cause of clonic hemifacial spasm?

The primary cause is often vascular compression of the facial nerve, but it can also be due to tumors or demyelinating diseases.

How is clonic hemifacial spasm diagnosed?

Diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on the observation of involuntary facial contractions, and may be supported by imaging studies to rule out other conditions.