NIHSS score 27

This code indicates a National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score of 27, reflecting a severe neurological deficit typically following an acute ischemic stroke. The NIHSS is a standardized tool used to quantify the severity of stroke-related neurological impairment across multiple domains.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states an NIHSS score of 27, often in the context of an acute stroke admission or subsequent evaluation. This score signifies profound neurological impairment, impacting motor function, consciousness, language, and other neurological systems.

• Always ensure the medical record clearly documents the NIHSS score as 27.
• This code should be sequenced after the primary diagnosis for the stroke (e.g., I63.x).
• Do not use this code if the NIHSS score is not precisely 27; specific codes exist for other score ranges.