G81: Hemiplegia and hemiparesis

G81 refers to Hemiplegia and hemiparesis, a set of neurological disorders resulting in motor impairment, often due to brain or spinal cord damage. These conditions range from congenital issues like cerebral palsy to acquired syndromes following stroke, trauma, or neurological disease, and can significantly impact mobility and daily living.

Symptoms

• Muscle stiffness or spasticity – Common in cerebral palsy and spastic hemiplegia/paraplegia
• Weakness on one side of the body – Seen in hemiparesis (G81)
• Loss of function in both legs or all four limbs – Associated with G82 diagnoses
• Involuntary movements or tremors – Found in some types of cerebral palsy (G80)
• Difficulty walking or loss of coordination – Found across all paralytic syndromes
• Speech or swallowing difficulties – Especially in more severe or extensive paralysis
• Bladder or bowel dysfunction – Common in spinal-origin quadriplegia or paraplegia

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Hemiplegia and hemiparesis is clinical, supported by brain or spinal imaging (MRI, CT), neurological exams, developmental screening (in CP), and functional assessments. The timing of onset (congenital vs. acquired) and progression help determine the exact syndrome and treatment plan.

ICD10 Code Usage

ICD10 code G81 is used in pediatric neurology, rehabilitation, orthopedics, internal medicine, and long-term care settings. It facilitates classification for therapy plans, disability documentation, medical equipment justification, and ongoing tracking of motor disabilities.

Related Codes

• G80 – Cerebral palsy
• G82 – Paraplegia (paraparesis) and quadriplegia (quadriparesis)
• G83 – Other paralytic syndromes

FAQs

Q1: What is ICD10 code G81?
A: It designates Hemiplegia and hemiparesis, a group of movement disorders caused by neurological damage affecting muscle control or strength.

Q2: Are these conditions reversible?
A: Most are chronic, though early intervention and therapy can improve function and quality of life.

Q3: What causes cerebral palsy (G80)?
A: It is usually caused by brain injury before, during, or shortly after birth due to hypoxia, infection, or trauma.

Q4: How are these disorders managed?
A: Through physical, occupational, and speech therapy, assistive devices, orthopedic surgery, and medications for spasticity.

Q5: Who provides care?
A: Multidisciplinary teams including neurologists, physiatrists, physical therapists, orthopedic surgeons, and social workers.

Conclusion

ICD10 code G81 ensures proper classification and care planning for Hemiplegia and hemiparesis, enabling access to treatment, rehabilitation services, assistive devices, and long-term support for individuals with motor disabilities and paralysis syndromes.