J38.00 Paralysis of vocal cords and larynx, unspecified

ICD10CM code

#### Name of the Condition
- Paralysis of Vocal Cords and Larynx, Unspecified
- Medical Term: Vocal Cord Paralysis

#### Summary
Paralysis of the vocal cords and larynx refers to a condition where the muscles that control the vocal cords are not able to move. This can lead to voice changes, swallowing difficulties, and breathing issues.

#### Causes
- Surgery or trauma to the neck or chest
- Viral infections
- Neurological disorders, such as Parkinson's disease
- Tumors affecting the nerves or muscles of the throat

#### Risk Factors
- History of neck or chest surgery or injury
- Neurological conditions
- Age-related degeneration
- Throat or thyroid cancer

#### Symptoms
- Hoarse or breathy voice
- Loss of vocal pitch
- Choking or coughing while eating
- Breathing difficulties when speaking or exerting oneself

#### Diagnosis
- Laryngoscopy to visualize vocal cord movement
- Electromyography (EMG) to assess nerve and muscle function
- Imaging studies, like CT or MRI, to identify underlying causes

#### Treatment Options
- **Voice Therapy**: Exercises to improve voice quality and function.
- **Surgery**: Procedures to reposition or bulk up the affected vocal cord.
- **Tracheotomy**: In severe cases, to assist with breathing.

#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- Many individuals recover vocal function with therapy and time.
- Regular follow-ups may include voice assessments and monitoring for any recurrent issues.

#### Complications
- Permanent voice changes
- Breathing difficulties if not properly managed
- Aspiration pneumonia due to swallowing issues

#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Avoiding smoking and excessive shouting to protect the vocal cords
- Early treatment of throat infections or conditions

#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Sudden loss of voice or difficulty breathing
- Persistent hoarseness or changes in voice

#### Additional Resources
- American Academy of Otolaryngology: [www.entnet.org](http://www.entnet.org)
- National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders: [www.nidcd.nih.gov](http://www.nidcd.nih.gov)

#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure the vocal cord paralysis is unspecified to use code J38.00.
- Verify with clinical documentation if there are more specific diagnoses available.
- Avoid coding based solely on the symptom, i.e., hoarseness, without confirming paralysis.

Medical Policies and Guidelines for Paralysis of vocal cords and larynx, unspecified

Related policies from health plans

Similar Codes