ICD-9 vs. ICD-10: 12 Differences to Know

The ICD-10 conversion is growing nearer and the conversation surrounding the impending switch focuses heavily on the jump in the number of codes. Here are 12 specific differences between ICD-9-CM and ICD-10-CM, according to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

Field length
•    ICD-9-CM: Three to five characters
•    ICD-10-CM: Three to seven characters

Code composition
•    ICD-9-CM: Approximately 14,000 codes
•    ICD-10-CM: Approximately 69,000 codes

Available space for new codes
•    ICD-9-CM: Limited
•    ICD-10-CM: Flexible

Overall code detail
•    ICD-9-CM: Limited detail in many conditions
•    ICD-10-CM: Generally more specific

Laterality
•    ICD-9-CM: Does not identify right versus left
•    ICD-10-CM: Often identifies right versus left

Sample code
•    ICD-9-CM: 81315, open fracture of head of radius
•    ICD-10-CM: S52122C, displaced fracture of head of left radius, initial encounter for open fracture type IIIA, IIIB or IIIC

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