Ataxia following nontraumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage

This code signifies the presence of ataxia, a neurological symptom characterized by impaired coordination and balance, that occurs as a sequela of a non-traumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage. It indicates a long-term neurological deficit resulting from bleeding into the subarachnoid space not caused by an external injury.

Use this code when documentation clearly states that a patient is experiencing ataxia as a residual effect of a past subarachnoid hemorrhage that was not due to trauma. This applies to chronic or persistent ataxia, not acute symptoms during the initial hemorrhage. Supporting documentation should specify the link between the prior hemorrhage and the current ataxia.

• Ensure the subarachnoid hemorrhage was explicitly documented as "nontraumatic" to use this specific code.
• Do not use for acute ataxia occurring during the initial hemorrhage; this code is for sequelae.
• Sequence this code after the primary diagnosis if the ataxia is a manifestation of another underlying condition, or as a primary diagnosis if it is the reason for the encounter.