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Neurology & Pain Management Coding Alert

Reader Questions:

Search 438.xx for CVA Late Effects

Published on Tue Mar 04, 2008

Question: What diagnosis should I report for post-CVA deficits? Michigan Subscriber Answer: If you need a diagnosis for late effects of CVA, look at the 438.xx family (Late effects of cerebrovascular disease). The choices range from the general diagnosis 438.0 (Cognitive deficits) to specific location-related diagnoses such as 438.31 (Monoplegia of upper limb affecting dominant side). Most codes under 438 require a fifth digit, so study them to decide which code best defines the problem.
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