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ICD-10 Coding for Bilateral Sacroiliitis(M46.1)

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

Also known as:

Sacroiliac Joint InflammationSI Joint Arthritis

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Bilateral Sacroiliitis

M45-M49Primary Range

Spondylopathies

Includes inflammatory conditions affecting the spine and sacroiliac joints, such as sacroiliitis.

Dorsopathies

Includes other back pain conditions that may be considered in differential diagnosis.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for bilateral sacroiliitis

Essential facts and insights about Bilateral Sacroiliitis

The ICD-10 code for bilateral sacroiliitis is M46.1, requiring imaging confirmation.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for bilateral sacroiliitis

Sacroiliitis, not elsewhere classified
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Imaging shows Grade 2 bilateral sacroiliitis.

documentation Criteria

  • Documented failure of NSAID therapy.

Applicable To

  • Inflammatory sacroiliac joint disease

Excludes

  • Ankylosing spondylitis (M45.9)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Radiographic confirmation of Grade 2 bilateral or Grade 3 unilateral sacroiliac joint changes
  • MRI findings of bone marrow edema in sacroiliac joints

Code-Specific Risks

  • Using without imaging confirmation may lead to denials.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure imaging findings are documented to support the use of M46.1.

Ancillary Codes

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

Injection procedure for sacroiliac joint, with image guidance

27096
Use for therapeutic injections into the sacroiliac joint, requires imaging guidance.

Differential Codes

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

Sacrococcygeal disorders, not elsewhere classified

M53.3
Use for non-inflammatory sacroiliac pain without radiographic changes.

Lumbago with sciatica

M54.41
Use when radiculopathy is present without sacroiliac joint inflammation.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Bilateral Sacroiliitis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M46.1.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment plans., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure imaging findings are included in documentation., Use specific terminology like 'sacroiliitis' with imaging evidence.

Impact

Reimbursement: Claims may be denied due to lack of specificity., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure radiographic or MRI evidence is documented.

Impact

Lack of imaging documentation for M46.1 claims.

Mitigation Strategy

Implement checklist for imaging documentation before claim submission.

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 Bilateral Sacroiliitis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Bilateral Sacroiliitis

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

Chronic bilateral sacroiliitis with confirmed imaging

Specialty: Rheumatology

Required Elements

  • Imaging findings
  • NSAID treatment history
  • HLA-B27 status

Example Documentation

Assessment: Chronic bilateral sacroiliitis confirmed by MRI. HLA-B27 positive. NSAID trial failed.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Low back pain, possible SI joint issue.
Good Documentation Example
Severe bilateral SI tenderness. XR shows Grade 2 bilateral erosions without ankylosis. CRP 12 mg/L.
Explanation
The good example provides specific imaging findings and lab results, supporting the diagnosis.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Bilateral Sacroiliitis? Ask your questions below.

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