ICD-10 Code G51 – Facial nerve disorders (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code G51 – Facial nerve disorders
What it is
G51 identifies disorders of the facial nerve, also called the seventh cranial nerve. It covers conditions affecting facial movement, sensation-related function, or nerve integrity on one or both sides.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common findings include facial weakness, drooping, loss of forehead movement, incomplete eye closure, or asymmetry of facial expression.
When to use this code
Use G51 when the provider documents a facial nerve disorder without a more specific diagnosis. It may apply after neurologic evaluation, imaging, or when the chart notes facial nerve palsy or dysfunction. If the record names a specific cause or subtype, code that condition instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for generalized neurologic weakness, stroke-related deficits, or other cranial nerve disorders. Check documentation if the diagnosis is more specific than facial nerve disorder.
Coding tip
Code the documented facial nerve condition to the highest specificity available, and confirm laterality or cause when the record supports it.