Non-Billable / Non-Specific Code
ICD-10-CM J38.0 is the diagnosis code for Paralysis of vocal cords and larynx. This code falls under the section "Other diseases of upper respiratory tract" within Chapter 10 — Diseases of the respiratory system (J00-J99). It is a non-billable/non-specific ICD-10-CM code that should not be used for reimbursement. A more specific sub-code is required for billing. Medical coders and healthcare providers use this code to document and classify diagnoses in electronic health records, insurance claims, and clinical databases.
Understanding where J38.0 sits in the ICD-10-CM classification helps ensure proper coding:
No, J38.0 is a non-billable/non-specific code. You should use a more specific sub-code for billing and reimbursement.
J38.0 is the ICD-10-CM diagnosis code for "Paralysis of vocal cords and larynx". It is used by healthcare providers to classify and document this condition in medical records and insurance claims.
The parent code of J38.0 is J38 ("Diseases of vocal cords and larynx, not elsewhere classified"). J38.0 provides a more specific classification within this category.
J38.0 is located in Section J30-J39 — "Other diseases of upper respiratory tract" within Chapter 10 of the ICD-10-CM Tabular List.
J38.0 has 3 sub-code(s) that provide more specific detail: J38.00, J38.01, J38.02.
Use J38.0 when the patients documented diagnosis matches "Paralysis of vocal cords and larynx" and the clinical documentation supports this level of specificity. Always verify with the latest ICD-10-CM guidelines and payer requirements.
The ICD-10-CM code for Paralysis of vocal cords and larynx is J38.0.
No, J38.0 is non-billable. Use a more specific sub-code for primary diagnosis billing.
J38.0 is in Chapter 10 of the ICD-10-CM Tabular List.
Yes, J38.0 is a valid ICD-10-CM code for the 2026 fiscal year, subject to official CMS updates.