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 CodesG81.90

G81.90

Billable

Hemiplegia, unspecified affecting unspecified side

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

Code Description

ICD-10 G81.90 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of hemiplegia, unspecified affecting unspecified 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 G81.90, the hemiplegia is unspecified, meaning that the specific side affected is not documented. This can complicate treatment and rehabilitation, as the degree of impairment and the specific needs of the patient may vary significantly. Hemiplegia can lead to significant mobility impairments, affecting the patient's ability to perform daily activities and participate in rehabilitation programs. Patients may experience muscle weakness, spasticity, and coordination difficulties, which can further complicate their mobility. In children, hemiplegia may be associated with cerebral palsy, a group of disorders that affect movement and muscle tone. Understanding the underlying cause of hemiplegia is crucial for effective management and rehabilitation, as it influences the treatment approach and expected outcomes. The unspecified nature of this code may lead to challenges in care planning and resource allocation, making accurate documentation essential for optimal patient management.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Unspecified side complicates treatment planning
  • Variety of underlying causes requires careful assessment
  • Potential for co-existing conditions (e.g., cerebral palsy)
  • Variability in patient presentation and needs

Audit Risk Factors

  • Lack of specificity in documentation
  • Inconsistent use of hemiplegia terminology
  • Failure to document underlying causes
  • Inadequate justification for therapy services

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

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

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of the affected side and any associated neurological deficits.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive rehabilitation plans, including goals, interventions, and progress notes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Rehabilitation following stroke, traumatic brain injury, or management of cerebral palsy.

Billing Considerations

Document functional limitations and the impact on daily living activities.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use G81.90 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, ensuring that the diagnosis is supported by clinical documentation
  • 90 should be used when the specific side of hemiplegia is not documented
  • Ensure that the underlying cause is also noted if applicable

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use G81.90 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

97110CPT Code

Therapeutic exercises

Clinical Scenario

Used for rehabilitation of patients with hemiplegia to improve strength and mobility.

Documentation Requirements

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

Specialty Considerations

Physical therapy documentation must align with the diagnosis of hemiplegia.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more detailed coding of hemiplegia, enabling better tracking of patient outcomes and resource allocation. G81.90 serves as a catch-all for unspecified cases, but it is crucial to strive for more specific coding when possible.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more detailed coding of hemiplegia, enabling better tracking of patient outcomes and resource allocation. G81.90 serves as a catch-all for unspecified cases, but it is crucial to strive for more specific coding when possible.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more detailed coding of hemiplegia, enabling better tracking of patient outcomes and resource allocation. G81.90 serves as a catch-all for unspecified cases, but it is crucial to strive for more specific coding when possible.

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 G81.90 be used?

G81.90 should be used when hemiplegia is documented but the specific side affected is not specified. It is important to ensure that the documentation supports the diagnosis.