ICD-10 Code G81.00 – Flaccid hemiplegia affecting unspecified side (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code G81.00 – Flaccid hemiplegia affecting unspecified side
What it is
G81.00 identifies flaccid hemiplegia, meaning paralysis with reduced muscle tone affecting one side of the body, when the side is not specified in the record. Use it when documentation clearly states flaccid hemiplegia but does not identify right or left.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include marked weakness or paralysis on one side, with limp, decreased tone rather than spasticity. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for the side involved and whether the hemiplegia is acute, chronic, or residual.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents flaccid hemiplegia and the affected side is not stated. It may appear in records for stroke, neurologic injury, or other central nervous system disorders, but you should code only what is documented. If the chart later specifies right or left, update the code accordingly.
Do not use for
Do not use G81.00 for spastic hemiplegia, hemiparesis, or generalized weakness. Also avoid it when the record identifies the right or left side, because a more specific hemiplegia code applies.
Coding tip
Check the provider note for laterality and whether the condition is flaccid, spastic, or residual before assigning G81.00.