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.
Michigan Subscriber
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).