Dysphagia ICD-10-CM Codes | 2023
Accurate and comprehensive ICD-10-CM codes for Dysphagia. Simplify medical billing and coding with our precise classification system.
Fact Checked by Ericka Pingol.
What ICD-10 Codes are Used for Dysphagia?
Dysphagia refers to difficulty in swallowing, a condition with various underlying causes. In the ICD-10-CM coding system, specific codes are used to accurately identify and classify dysphagia cases for effective healthcare management. Here are some commonly used ICD-10-CM codes for dysphagia, along with their clinical descriptions:
R13.10 - Dysphagia, unspecified:
This code is used when the exact cause or nature of the swallowing difficulty is not specified in the medical documentation.
R13.11 - Dysphagia, oral phase:
This code indicates difficulty initiating or coordinating the swallowing process, usually associated with mouth, tongue, or lips issues.
R13.12 - Dysphagia, oropharyngeal phase:
This code represents problems encountered during the swallowing process in the oropharynx, including the back of the throat and the upper esophagus.
R13.13 - Dysphagia, pharyngeal phase:
This code indicates difficulty in swallowing due to impaired function in the pharynx, which can result from muscular or neurological disorders.
R13.14 - Dysphagia, pharyngoesophageal phase:
This code is used when there is difficulty in swallowing at the junction between the pharynx and the esophagus.
R13.19 - Other dysphagia:
This code encompasses dysphagia cases that do not fit into the specific categories mentioned above and require further specification.
J38.00 - Paralysis of vocal cords and larynx, unspecified:
This code is relevant when dysphagia occurs due to paralysis of the vocal cords or the larynx, resulting in compromised swallowing function.
J38.01 - Paralysis of vocal cords and larynx, unilateral:
This code signifies dysphagia caused by the paralysis of one side of the vocal cords or larynx, leading to swallowing difficulties.
K22.2 - Esophageal obstruction:
This code is used when dysphagia is caused by a physical blockage in the esophagus, such as the presence of tumors, strictures, or foreign bodies.
G31.83 - Neuronal intranuclear inclusion disease:
This code is relevant when dysphagia is a symptom of neuronal intranuclear inclusion disease, a rare genetic disorder affecting the nervous system.
Which Dysphagia ICD codes are Billable?
R13.10 - Dysphagia, unspecified:
Yes, this code is billable as it represents a specific diagnosis of dysphagia without further specification.
R13.11 - Dysphagia, oral phase:
Yes, this code is billable as it identifies a distinct phase of dysphagia related to issues in the oral cavity.
R13.12 - Dysphagia, oropharyngeal phase:
Yes, this code is billable as it denotes a specific phase of dysphagia related to the oropharynx.
R13.13 - Dysphagia, pharyngeal phase:
Yes, this code is billable as it represents a distinct phase of dysphagia involving the pharynx.
R13.14 - Dysphagia, pharyngoesophageal phase:
Yes, this code is billable as it identifies dysphagia at the pharynx and esophagus junction.
R13.19 - Other dysphagia:
Yes, this code is billable as it covers dysphagia cases that do not fit into specific categories and require further specification.
J38.00 - Paralysis of vocal cords and larynx, unspecified:
Yes, this code is billable as it indicates a specific diagnosis of vocal cord and larynx paralysis, which can result in dysphagia.
J38.01 - Paralysis of vocal cords and larynx, unilateral:
Yes, this code is billable as it identifies unilateral vocal cord and larynx paralysis as a cause of dysphagia.
K22.2 - Esophageal obstruction:
Yes, this code is billable as it represents a specific diagnosis of esophageal obstruction leading to dysphagia.
G31.83 - Neuronal intranuclear inclusion disease:
Yes, this code is billable as it identifies a rare genetic disorder that can manifest with dysphagia as a symptom.
Clinical Information
- Dysphagia refers to difficulty in swallowing and can result from various underlying causes.
- It can affect any part of the swallowing process, including the oral, oropharyngeal, pharyngeal, and esophageal phases.
- Dysphagia can be caused by structural abnormalities obstructing the esophagus, such as strictures, tumors, or foreign bodies.
- Neurological conditions, such as stroke, Parkinson's, or motor neuron disorders, can lead to dysphagia due to muscle weakness or coordination problems.
- Conditions affecting the muscles and structures involved in swallowing, such as muscular dystrophy or head and neck cancer, can also cause dysphagia.
- Symptoms of dysphagia may include pain or discomfort while swallowing, choking or coughing during or after eating, or a sensation of food getting stuck in the throat or chest.
- Diagnosis of dysphagia involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, and possibly additional tests such as a swallowing study or endoscopy.
- Treatment options for dysphagia depend on the underlying cause and severity and may include dietary modifications, swallowing exercises, medications, or surgical interventions.
- Dysphagia management often involves a multidisciplinary approach, including input from speech therapists, gastroenterologists, otolaryngologists, and dieticians.
- Proper diagnosis and management of dysphagia are crucial to prevent complications such as malnutrition, dehydration, aspiration pneumonia, and reduced quality of life.
Synonyms Include:
- Swallowing difficulties
- Deglutition disorders
- Impaired swallowing
- Feeding problems
- Eating difficulties
Commonly asked questions
Healthcare providers assign Dysphagia ICD codes based on the patient's symptoms, medical history, and clinical examination. These codes help communicate the diagnosis, facilitating effective communication and coordination among healthcare professionals.
Yes, the ICD coding system is periodically updated to reflect medical knowledge and terminology advancements. Healthcare providers need to stay updated with the latest version of ICD codes to ensure accurate documentation and coding.
The ICD-10-CM coding manual provides a comprehensive list of codes for various medical conditions, including dysphagia. Healthcare providers should review the coding guidelines and consult the documentation to assign the most appropriate and specific code for each dysphagia case.
