ICD-10 Coding for Cervical Disc Bulging(M50.22)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Cervical Disc Bulging. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Cervical Disc Bulging
M50.0-M50.9Primary Range
Cervical disc disorders
This range covers all cervical disc disorders including displacement, degeneration, and associated conditions like myelopathy and radiculopathy.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for cervical disc bulging
Essential facts and insights about Cervical Disc Bulging
Primary ICD-10-CM Code for cervical disc bulging
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- MRI confirms disc bulge at C5-C6 with radiculopathy.
Applicable To
- C5-C6 disc bulge with radiculopathy
Excludes
- Cervical spondylosis without myelopathy or radiculopathy (M47.2-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- MRI showing disc bulge at C5-C6
- Clinical symptoms of radiculopathy
Code-Specific Risks
- Misidentifying the specific cervical region
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies the exact cervical level and presence of radiculopathy.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
MRI of cervical spine
72156Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Cervical Disc Bulging to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M50.22.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Use specific terms like 'C5-C6 disc bulge with radiculopathy'.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data reporting.
Mitigation Strategy
Verify the specific cervical region in imaging reports before coding.
Impact
Audits may target incorrect cervical level coding.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure imaging reports are accurately reflected in documentation.
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 Cervical Disc Bulging, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Cervical Disc Bulging
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Cervical Disc Bulging. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Cervical disc bulge with radiculopathy
Specialty: NeurosurgeryRequired Elements
- Patient history
- Physical examination
- Imaging results
- Diagnosis
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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