Is ICD-10-CM code H49 billable?

No, H49 (Paralytic strabismus) is a non-billable ICD-10-CM code. It must be coded to a more specific subcategory before it can be used for reimbursement.

What chapter does ICD-10-CM code H49 belong to?

H49 belongs to Chapter 7 of the ICD-10-CM tabular list: H00–H59 (Diseases of the Eye and Adnexa).

H49Not billable, use a more specific code below

Paralytic strabismus

In Disorders of ocular muscles, binocular movement, accommodation and refraction (H49-H52), chapter 7: Diseases of the Eye and Adnexa

29 billable codes under H49: 4 are a CC; none map to an HCC.A CC or MCC (major CC) is a secondary diagnosis that raises the MS-DRG payment.

Instructional notes

Excludes2: not included here, code separately if applicable

internal ophthalmoplegia (H52.51-)
internuclear ophthalmoplegia (H51.2-)
progressive supranuclear ophthalmoplegia (G23.1)

Also applies, from Disorders of ocular muscles, binocular movement, accommodation and refraction (H49-H52)

These notes sit on H49-H52 and apply to every code under it, including H49.

Excludes2: not included here, code separately if applicable

nystagmus and other irregular eye movements (H55)

Official coding guidelines

From the ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting, FY 2027 (CMS and NCHS). Links open the PDF at the right page.

Covers coding glaucoma by type, eye, and stage, including bilateral cases and stage changes, and coding blindness or low vision when the impairment category is undocumented.

Glaucoma (page 48)
Blindness (page 49)

Read Section I.C.7 (page 48)

All codes under H49

H49 can't be used on a claim. Pick a billable code below; grey headings group them.

H49 MS-DRGs

As the principal diagnosis, the billable codes under H49 group to MS-DRG 123 or 642 (v44.0). Which one applies depends on procedures performed, secondary diagnoses (CC/MCC), and the patient's age and discharge status.

DRG 123 Neurological Eye Disorders (25 of 29 codes)
DRG 642 Inborn and Other Disorders of Metabolism (4 of 29 codes)

About the condition

Plain-language background from MedlinePlus (National Library of Medicine), not coding guidance.

Eye Movement Disorders

When you look at an object, you're using several muscles to move both eyes to focus on it. If you have a problem with the muscles, the eyes don't work properly.

Code history

Valid since FY2016, when ICD-10-CM took effect on October 1, 2015. No changes since.