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ICD-10 Coding for Anterolisthesis Lumbar(M43.16)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Anterolisthesis Lumbar. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Lumbar SpondylolisthesisLumbar Vertebral Slippage

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Anterolisthesis Lumbar

M43.1-M43.17Primary Range

Spondylolisthesis and spondylolysis

This range includes codes for spondylolisthesis, specifically lumbar anterolisthesis, which is the primary focus.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for lumbar anterolisthesis

Essential facts and insights about Anterolisthesis Lumbar

The ICD-10 code for lumbar anterolisthesis is M43.16, applicable for slippage at L1-L5.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for anterolisthesis lumbar

Spondylolisthesis, lumbar region
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of Meyerding grade on imaging

documentation Criteria

  • Specific vertebral level documentation

Applicable To

  • Lumbar anterolisthesis
  • Lumbar vertebral slippage

Excludes

  • Lumbosacral spondylolisthesis (M43.17)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Meyerding grade on X-ray
  • Dynamic instability on flexion-extension X-rays

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly coding as unspecified site when lumbar level is known.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies vertebral level and includes imaging findings.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Radiculopathy, lumbar region

M54.16
Use when there is documented nerve compression or radicular symptoms.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Spondylolisthesis, lumbosacral region

M43.17
Use for slippage involving L5-S1.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Anterolisthesis Lumbar to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M43.16.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment decisions., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure imaging reports include Meyerding grade., Educate providers on documentation standards.

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to reduced reimbursement due to lack of specificity., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of clinical data.

Mitigation Strategy

Always specify the vertebral level and use the appropriate code.

Impact

Risk of audits due to lack of specific vertebral level documentation.

Mitigation Strategy

Implement regular documentation audits and provider education.

Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Anterolisthesis Lumbar, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Anterolisthesis Lumbar

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Anterolisthesis Lumbar. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Orthopedic evaluation of lumbar anterolisthesis

Specialty: Orthopedics

Required Elements

  • History of present illness
  • Physical examination findings
  • Imaging results
  • Treatment plan

Example Documentation

Patient presents with Grade II anterolisthesis at L4-L5 confirmed by X-ray, with associated L5 radiculopathy. Treatment includes physical therapy and NSAIDs.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Back pain, possible slippage.
Good Documentation Example
Grade III L4-L5 anterolisthesis (9mm translation on upright X-ray) with L5 radiculopathy, refractory to interlaminar epidural.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details on the level, grade, and associated symptoms, which are necessary for accurate coding.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Anterolisthesis Lumbar? Ask your questions below.

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