ICD-10 Coding for Cervical Discectomy(M50.12)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Cervical Discectomy. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Cervical Discectomy
M50.0-M50.9Primary Range
Cervical disc disorders
This range includes codes for cervical disc disorders with myelopathy and radiculopathy, which are relevant for cervical discectomy procedures.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for cervical discectomy
Essential facts and insights about Cervical Discectomy
Primary ICD-10-CM Code for cervical discectomy
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of radicular pain and positive Spurling's test.
Applicable To
- C4-C5 radiculopathy
Excludes
- Cervicalgia (M54.2)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- EMG showing C6 radiculopathy
- MRI concordant findings
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification if radiculopathy is not properly documented.
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies radiculopathy with dermatome-specific findings.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Cervicalgia
M54.2Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Cervical disc disorder at C4-C5 level with myelopathy
M50.02Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Cervical Discectomy to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M50.12.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to misdiagnosis., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure detailed neurological exam documentation.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect billing may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate data on surgical procedures.
Mitigation Strategy
Use 22551 alone for ACDF with decompression.
Impact
Inadequate documentation may lead to audit findings.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure detailed clinical notes with specific findings.
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 Discectomy, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Cervical Discectomy
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Cervical Discectomy. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Cervical Radiculopathy with ACDF
Specialty: NeurosurgeryRequired Elements
- Chief Complaint
- Physical Exam Findings
- Imaging Results
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Cervical Discectomy? Ask your questions below.