ICD-10 code for vocal cords paralysis

The ICD-10-CM code for vocal cords paralysis is J38.00 (Paralysis of vocal cords and larynx, unspecified). The official index lists 2 more specific codes, so check the documentation for details such as type, cause, site or severity before settling on J38.00.

Within J38.0, choose J38.00 (unspecified) only when documentation doesn't support a more specific option: unilateral (J38.01) and bilateral (J38.02).

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 011 (Tracheostomy for Face, Mouth and Neck Diagnoses or Laryngectomy with MCC, relative weight 5.6154), DRG 012 (Tracheostomy for Face, Mouth and Neck Diagnoses or Laryngectomy with CC, relative weight 4.381), DRG 013 (Tracheostomy for Face, Mouth and Neck Diagnoses or Laryngectomy without CC/MCC, relative weight 2.7307), DRG 154 (Other Ear, Nose, Mouth and Throat Diagnoses with MCC, relative weight 1.5921), DRG 155 (Other Ear, Nose, Mouth and Throat Diagnoses with CC, relative weight 0.9322), DRG 156 (Other Ear, Nose, Mouth and Throat Diagnoses without CC/MCC, relative weight 0.6659) and 2 more, in Pre-MDC, MDC 03 (Diseases and Disorders of the Ear, Nose, Mouth and Throat) and MDC 15 (Newborns and Other Neonates with Conditions Originating in the Perinatal Period), as a principal or secondary diagnosis. The DRG a claim lands in depends on the principal diagnosis, procedures and any CC/MCC secondary diagnoses.