Neurology & Pain Management Coding Alert

Question: What is the difference between partial and complete paraplegia and quadriplegia, and how do I choose diagnosis codes for each condition?

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Answer: For paraplegia, you’ll choose between the following codes:

• G82.21 (Paraplegia, complete)
• G81.22 (Paraplegia, incomplete)

For quadriplegia, you’ll choose among the following codes:

• G82.51 (Quadriplegia, C1-C4 complete)
• G82.52 (Quadriplegia, C1-C4 incomplete)
• G82.53 (Quadriplegia, C5-C7 complete)
• G82.54 (Quadriplegia, C5-C7 incomplete)

Last resort: If you don’t have enough information for a more complete diagnosis, go with G82.20 (Paraplegia, unspecified) and G82.50 (Quadriplegia, unspecified) for paraplegia and quadriplegia, respectively.

Here are the main characteristics of partial paraplegia:

• There is some degree of movement and sensation below the level of the injury.
• The person may have limited control over their legs and may be able to move them to some extent.
• Sensation, such as feeling touch or pain, may be present but could be reduced or altered.
• The specific level of function and sensation can vary depending on the location and severity of the spinal cord injury.

Here are the main characteristics of complete paraplegia:

• There is a total loss of movement and sensation below the level of the injury.
• The person is unable to move their legs and has no sensation in that area.
• They have no voluntary control over their lower body and may require aids, such as a wheelchair, for mobility.