ICD-10 Code J38.0 – Paralysis of vocal cords and larynx (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code J38.0 – Paralysis of vocal cords and larynx
What it is
J38.0 identifies paralysis of one or both vocal cords, with or without laryngeal involvement. Use it when the record documents impaired movement of the vocal folds causing loss of normal voice or airway protection.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include hoarseness, weak voice, breathy speech, or aspiration risk. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation, especially if laryngoscopy confirms limited or absent vocal cord motion.
When to use this code
Use J38.0 when the clinician clearly documents vocal cord paralysis or laryngeal paralysis as the diagnosis. It fits cases caused by nerve injury, surgery, malignancy, or other documented etiologies when the paralysis itself is the coded condition.
If laterality or cause is not specified, code only what is documented. Check documentation when the note describes dysphonia, vocal cord paresis, or postoperative hoarseness without confirming paralysis.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for nonspecific hoarseness, laryngitis, or voice strain without paralysis. Check documentation if the record describes paresis, spasm, or another laryngeal disorder instead.
Coding tip
Confirm that paralysis is explicitly stated in the provider note or endoscopy report before assigning J38.0.