Lesion of lateral popliteal nerve

This code represents a disorder affecting the lateral popliteal nerve, also known as the common peroneal nerve. This nerve lesion can result in sensory deficits, motor weakness, or paralysis in the muscles it innervates, primarily affecting foot dorsiflexion and eversion. Symptoms often include foot drop and numbness over the dorsum of the foot and lateral lower leg.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of a lesion, neuropathy, or injury specifically affecting the lateral popliteal (common peroneal) nerve. This applies to conditions such as peroneal nerve palsy due to compression, trauma, or systemic disease affecting this particular nerve. Supporting documentation should include neurological exam findings, nerve conduction studies, or electromyography results confirming the lesion's location.

• Differentiate from lesions of the tibial nerve or other peripheral nerves of the lower extremity; the specific nerve must be documented.
• Consider an additional code for the underlying cause of the lesion, such as trauma (e.g., fracture, dislocation) or systemic disease (e.g., diabetes, vasculitis), if known and documented.
• Avoid using this code for generalized polyneuropathies unless the lateral popliteal nerve is specifically and predominantly affected.