ICD-10-CM 2027
ICD-10 code for ocular paralysis
From the official ICD-10-CM alphabetic index entry “Paralysis, paralytic (complete) (incomplete) › ocular”. Page updated September 29, 2026.
About coding ocular paralysis
The ICD-10-CM code for ocular paralysis is H49.9 (Unspecified paralytic strabismus). The official index lists 1 more specific code, so check the documentation for details such as type, cause, site or severity before settling on H49.9.
Within H49, choose H49.9 (Unspecified paralytic strabismus) only when documentation doesn't support a more specific option: third [oculomotor] nerve palsy (H49.0), fourth [trochlear] nerve palsy (H49.1), sixth [abducent] nerve palsy (H49.2), total (external) ophthalmoplegia (H49.3), progressive external ophthalmoplegia (H49.4) and other paralytic strabismus (H49.8).
It is not a CC or MCC, so as a secondary diagnosis it doesn't change the MS-DRG severity level.
In MS-DRG v44.0, it is part of the grouping logic for DRG 123 (Neurological Eye Disorders, relative weight 0.822), in MDC 02 (Diseases and Disorders of the Eye), as a principal or secondary diagnosis. The DRG a claim lands in depends on the principal diagnosis, procedures and any CC/MCC secondary diagnoses.
More specific ocular paralysis codes (official index)
- alternating G83.89 — Other specified paralytic syndromes
Common questions about ocular paralysis ICD-10 codes
What is the ICD-10 code for ocular paralysis?
- H49.9 — Unspecified paralytic strabismus. More specific codes apply when the documentation supports them: G83.89.
What is the ICD-10 code for alternating ocular paralysis?
- G83.89 — Other specified paralytic syndromes.
Is H49.9 billable?
- Yes. H49.9 is a billable/specific ICD-10-CM code valid for FY2027 (October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2027).
Can H49.9 be used as a principal diagnosis?
- Yes. The Medicare Code Editor doesn't restrict H49.9 as a principal diagnosis.
Is H49.9 a CC or MCC?
- No. H49.9 is neither a CC nor an MCC under MS-DRG v44.0.