ICD-10 Coding for Cervical Facet Arthropathy(M47.812, M53.82)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Cervical Facet Arthropathy. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Cervical Facet Arthropathy
M47.811-M47.813Primary Range
Spondylosis without myelopathy or radiculopathy
Primary range for cervical facet arthropathy without myelopathy or radiculopathy.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| M47.812 | Spondylosis without myelopathy or radiculopathy, cervical region | Use when cervical facet arthropathy is present without myelopathy or radiculopathy. |
|
| M53.82 | Other specified dorsopathies, cervical region | Use for facet pain with mechanical dysfunction. |
|
Clinical Decision Support
Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for cervical facet arthropathy
Essential facts and insights about Cervical Facet Arthropathy
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for cervical facet arthropathy
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Imaging shows facet joint degeneration without neurological deficits.
Applicable To
- Degenerative facet arthropathy without neurological deficits
Excludes
- Spondylosis with myelopathy or radiculopathy
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Imaging showing joint space narrowing or osteophytes
- Absence of neurological deficits
Code-Specific Risks
- Confusion with spondylosis codes with radiculopathy
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies absence of myelopathy or radiculopathy.
M53.82 - Other specified dorsopathies, cervical region
Use for facet pain with mechanical dysfunction.
Applicable To
- Facet pain with mechanical dysfunction
Excludes
- Spondylosis with myelopathy or radiculopathy
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Pain worsens with extension/rotation
- Normal neurological exam
Coding Notes
Ensure mechanical dysfunction is documented.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Cervical disc displacement
M50.22Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Cervical Facet Arthropathy to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M47.812.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment plans., Regulatory: Increased risk of audit failures., Financial: Potential for claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Use detailed templates, Regular training on documentation standards
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate data for clinical research and statistics.
Mitigation Strategy
Use M47.812 for cervical facet arthropathy.
Impact
Misclassification of cervical facet arthropathy as general neck pain.
Mitigation Strategy
Implement regular coding audits and training sessions.
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 Facet Arthropathy, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Cervical Facet Arthropathy
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Cervical Facet Arthropathy. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Chronic Cervical Facet Arthropathy
Specialty: Pain ManagementRequired Elements
- History of present illness
- Physical examination findings
- Imaging results
- Diagnostic block outcomes
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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