J38.0 ICD-10-CM Code: Paralysis of vocal cords and larynx
Billing Status: NO. This is a clinician non-billable / parent hierarchy grouping in the ICD-10-CM system.
Code Set: Valid FY2026 and FY2027. FY2026 took effect October 1, 2025.
Official Registry Overview & Definition
Paralysis of vocal cords and larynx is a non-billable ICD-10-CM category code (J38.0). A more specific billable subcode must be selected for claims submission.
Official Tabular Instructional Notes
Sequencing, inclusion, and exclusion notes published for J38.0 in the official ICD-10-CM tabular list.
Inclusion Terms
Alternative terms the tabular list files under this code.
- Laryngoplegia
- Paralysis of glottis
Excludes1 — Not Coded Here
Conditions that can never be reported with this code; the two are mutually exclusive.
- congenital laryngeal stridor (P28.89)
- obstructive laryngitis (acute) (J05.0)
- postprocedural subglottic stenosis (J95.5)
- stridor (R06.1)
- ulcerative laryngitis (J04.0)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) & Clinical Guidance
Can J38.0 be billed directly?
No. J38.0 (Paralysis of vocal cords and larynx) is a non-billable ICD-10-CM category code. A more specific billable subcode must be selected based on clinical documentation.
Nearest Codes in This Family
Official ICD-10-CM classifications closest to J38.0 in its code family, with their registry titles.
- J38 — Diseases of vocal cords and larynx, not elsewhere classified
- J38.00 — Paralysis of vocal cords and larynx, unspecified
- J38.01 — Paralysis of vocal cords and larynx, unilateral
- J38.02 — Paralysis of vocal cords and larynx, bilateral
- J38.1 — Polyp of vocal cord and larynx
- J38.2 — Nodules of vocal cords
- J38.3 — Other diseases of vocal cords
- J38.4 — Edema of larynx
- J38.5 — Laryngeal spasm
- J38.6 — Stenosis of larynx