Phrenic nerve paralysis due to birth injury

This code signifies a condition where the phrenic nerve, which controls the diaphragm, is damaged during the birth process, leading to paralysis. This birth injury impairs the diaphragm's ability to contract, potentially causing respiratory distress in the newborn.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states phrenic nerve paralysis in a neonate, directly attributed to trauma or injury sustained during delivery. Supporting documentation would include physician notes detailing the birth injury and its resulting neurological deficit affecting respiratory function.

• Ensure the documentation clearly links the phrenic nerve paralysis to a birth injury, not other causes.
• Differentiate from diaphragmatic hernia, which can also cause respiratory distress but has a different etiology.
• Consider sequencing this code after codes for the specific type of birth trauma if applicable.