Wiki hemeparesis

[mastovichta@upmc.edu]

Why does hemeparesis as late effect of CVA code to 438.22? Hemeparesis is weakness, not paralysis. Why wouldn't you code as 438.89 w/780.79?

 

[mhstrauss]

Why does hemeparesis as late effect of CVA code to 438.22? Hemeparesis is weakness, not paralysis. Why wouldn't you code as 438.89 w/780.79?

The code description for 438.2 is "Hemiplegia/hemiparesis". Either condition can be coded to 438.2 (if it is a late effect of CVD, of course). See this link for further explanation:

"Hemiplegia is paralysis of one side of the body. Hemiparesis is weakness of one side of the body and is less severe than hemiplegia. Both are a common side effect of stroke or cerebrovascular accident."

http://www.stroke-rehab.com/hemiplegia.html

Hope this helps.

 

[mastovichta@upmc.edu]

Thank you for your reply. But why wouldn't you use the 728.87 with 438.89 as Late Effect CVA (438.89) w/ muscle weakness (728.87). I am in the Risk Adjustment department and these codes do not carry a risk on the patient, put hemiplegia does.