Brachial plexus lesions

This code signifies damage or dysfunction of the brachial plexus, a network of nerves originating from the spinal cord that innervates the shoulder, arm, and hand. Lesions can result in motor weakness, sensory loss, and pain in the affected upper extremity.

Apply this code for diagnoses such as brachial plexopathy, brachial plexus injury (traumatic or non-traumatic), or brachial neuritis. Documentation should clearly indicate involvement of the brachial plexus, often detailing the specific nerves or trunks affected.

• Differentiate from peripheral nerve injuries distal to the brachial plexus (e.g., radial, ulnar, median nerve lesions).
• Consider an additional external cause code (E-code) if the lesion is due to trauma.
• Review documentation for laterality (left, right, bilateral) if specified, though this ICD-9 code does not allow for laterality.