ICD-10 Code G83.5 – Locked-in state (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code G83.5 – Locked-in state
What it is
G83.5 identifies locked-in state, a rare neurologic condition in which a person is awake and aware but has severe paralysis. Communication is usually limited to eye movements or blinking.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include quadriplegia, preserved consciousness, and loss of speech. Check documentation for the neurologic cause and the extent of voluntary movement, since clinical features vary.
When to use this code
Use G83.5 when the record clearly documents locked-in state as the diagnosis. It may appear in patients with severe brainstem injury or another confirmed cause, but you should code only what is explicitly stated. If the chart describes coma, vegetative state, or generalized paralysis without locked-in state, do not assume this code.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for coma, persistent vegetative state, or unspecified paralysis unless locked-in state is documented. If the provider has not confirmed the condition, check documentation.
Coding tip
Assign G83.5 only when the provider names locked-in state; do not infer it from severe weakness or minimal responsiveness alone.