Dysphagia ICD-10-CM Codes | 2023

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