What is the ICD-10 (International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision) code for a sleep study?

ICD-10 Codes for Sleep Studies

The most commonly used ICD-10 codes for ordering sleep studies are G47.9 (sleep disorder, unspecified) and G47.8 (other sleep disorders), though specific diagnostic codes based on clinical suspicion provide better justification for testing.

Primary ICD-10 Codes for Sleep Study Authorization

Most Frequently Used General Codes

• G47.9 - Sleep disorder, unspecified 1
• G47.8 - Other sleep disorders 1
• R06.83 - Snoring (often used for suspected obstructive sleep apnea) 1

Specific Diagnostic Codes Based on Clinical Suspicion

For Suspected Obstructive Sleep Apnea:

• G47.33 - Obstructive sleep apnea (adult/pediatric) 1, 2
• R06.83 - Snoring 1
• E66.9 - Obesity, unspecified (when obesity is a contributing factor) 1

For Insomnia-Related Studies:

• G47.00 - Insomnia, unspecified 1, 3
• F51.01 - Primary insomnia 3
• F51.05 - Insomnia due to other mental disorder 3
• G47.09 - Other insomnia 1

For Suspected Narcolepsy:

• G47.419 - Narcolepsy without cataplexy 1, 2
• G47.411 - Narcolepsy with cataplexy 1, 2

For Circadian Rhythm Disorders:

• G47.2 - Circadian rhythm sleep disorders 4, 3
• G47.21 - Circadian rhythm sleep disorder, delayed sleep phase type 3

For Movement Disorders:

• G47.61 - Periodic limb movement disorder 1, 2
• G25.81 - Restless legs syndrome 1, 2

For Parasomnias:

• G47.52 - REM sleep behavior disorder 2

Clinical Documentation Requirements

Essential Elements for Authorization

• Document specific symptoms that justify the sleep study, including daytime sleepiness, witnessed apneas, loud snoring, difficulty initiating or maintaining sleep, or abnormal movements during sleep 4
• Include screening questionnaire results when available (STOP-BANG for OSA, diagnostic criteria for RLS) 4
• Note daytime impairment such as fatigue, cognitive difficulties, mood disturbance, or safety concerns 4

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Avoid using only nonspecific codes (like G47.9) without clinical context, as insurers may deny authorization 1
• Do not use ICD-9 codes (such as 307.4 or 780.5), which are outdated but were historically common 1
• Ensure adequate opportunity for sleep is documented to distinguish true sleep disorders from insufficient sleep time 4

Coding Strategy by Clinical Scenario

When OSA is strongly suspected (snoring, witnessed apneas, obesity, hypertension):

• Use G47.33 or R06.83 as primary code 1
• Add comorbidity codes (E66.9 for obesity, I10 for hypertension) 1

When multiple sleep disorders are possible:

• Use the most specific code based on predominant symptoms 1
• G47.8 or G47.9 are acceptable when the specific disorder cannot be determined clinically 1

For follow-up or treatment studies:

• Use the established diagnosis code (e.g., G47.33 for known OSA on CPAP titration) 1

Important Considerations

• Polysomnography is not routinely indicated for uncomplicated insomnia unless there is suspicion of comorbid sleep-disordered breathing, movement disorders, or circadian rhythm disorders 4
• Clinical evaluation and screening tools should precede sleep study ordering to ensure appropriate test selection 4, 5
• Multiple codes may be necessary when comorbid conditions contribute to sleep disturbance 4