2025 ICD-10-CM code Q67.3
Plagiocephaly (Asymmetry of the head).
Medical necessity for treatment of plagiocephaly is determined by the severity of the asymmetry, the presence of functional limitations, and the potential for improvement with intervention.
- 17: Congenital malformations, deformations and chromosomal abnormalities (Q00-Q99)
- Q65-Q79 Congenital malformations and deformations of the musculoskeletal system
In simple words: Plagiocephaly is when a baby's head has a flat spot on one side, making it look asymmetrical.
Plagiocephaly is a condition characterized by an asymmetrical flattening of one side of the skull.It is often noticeable in infants. Excludes1: coronal craniosynostosis (Q75.02-) lambdoid craniosynostosis (Q75.04-)
Example 1: A 2-month-old infant presents with a flattened right side of the skull, diagnosed as plagiocephaly., A newborn is observed to have an asymmetrical head shape due to positioning in the womb, leading to a diagnosis of plagiocephaly., A pediatrician examines a baby and notices a diagonal asymmetry of the head, consistent with plagiocephaly.
Documentation should include physical exam findings describing the asymmetry of the skull, any associated torticollis (neck muscle tightness), and the cause if known (positional, congenital).
** This condition is distinct from craniosynostosis, which involves premature fusion of the skull bones.Treatment for plagiocephaly may include repositioning techniques, physical therapy, or helmet therapy.
- Specialties:Pediatrics, Craniofacial Surgery, Physical Therapy
- Place of Service:Office, Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital