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Neurology & Pain Management Coding Alert

READER QUESTION ~ 'Unspecified' May Be Best Bet for Paraparesis

Published on Mon Jan 01, 2007

Question: What ICD-9 code should I report for paraparesis? The coding manual states -see paraplegia,- but paraparesis is weakness as opposed to paralysis.


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Answer: Paraparesis is actually partial paralysis of the lower extremities. If your physician documents the site of paralysis, code according to that, such as with 344.1 (Paraplegia; paralysis of both lower limbs).
 
If you don't know the partial paralysis- location, report 344.9 (Paralysis, unspecified).
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