ICD-10 Code H49.889 – Other paralytic strabismus, unspecified eye (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H49.889 – Other paralytic strabismus, unspecified eye
What it is
Use this code for paralytic strabismus affecting an unspecified eye when the deviation is due to extraocular muscle weakness or nerve palsy, but the record does not identify the right or left eye.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include misaligned eyes, diplopia, and limited eye movement in the affected direction. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Assign H49.889 when the clinician documents other paralytic strabismus and does not specify which eye is involved. Use it when the note supports a paralytic cause, such as cranial nerve palsy, but laterality is absent or unclear.
Check documentation if the record identifies a specific eye or a different strabismus type, because those details may require another code.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for nonparalytic or unspecified strabismus without paralysis. Also avoid it when the chart clearly identifies the right or left eye.
Coding tip
Confirm both paralytic etiology and missing laterality before reporting H49.889.