Plagiocephaly

This code represents plagiocephaly, a condition characterized by an asymmetrical or "flattened" head shape in an infant, often due to external pressures on the skull. It is a positional deformity, distinct from craniosynostosis where skull sutures fuse prematurely.

Assign this code when documentation specifies positional plagiocephaly, deformational plagiocephaly, or a flattened head shape without evidence of premature suture fusion. This code is appropriate for infants presenting with head shape asymmetry, typically noted by parents or during well-child visits.

• Differentiate carefully between positional plagiocephaly and craniosynostosis; the Excludes1 notes are critical.
• Ensure provider documentation clearly states "plagiocephaly" and ideally specifies it as positional or deformational.
• Avoid using this code if the documentation indicates premature closure of cranial sutures, which would lead to a craniosynostosis code.