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ICD-10 Coding for Cervical Spinal Cord Compression(G95.2, M50.0-, S14.109A)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Cervical Spinal Cord Compression. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Cervical MyelopathyCervical Spondylotic Myelopathy

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Cervical Spinal Cord Compression

Cord compression, unspecified

Used for non-traumatic cervical spinal cord compression.

M50.0-Primary Range

Cervical disc disorder with myelopathy

Primary code for cervical spinal cord compression due to disc disorders.

Unspecified cervical spinal cord injury

Used for traumatic cervical spinal cord compression.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
G95.2Cord compression, unspecifiedUse for non-traumatic compression not related to disc disorders.
  • Non-traumatic mechanism
  • Imaging confirmation
M50.0-Cervical disc disorder with myelopathyUse when compression is due to disc pathology.
  • MRI showing disc-osteophyte complex compressing cord
  • Symptoms of myelopathy
S14.109AUnspecified cervical spinal cord injuryUse for traumatic cervical spinal cord compression.
  • Acute trauma history
  • Imaging showing cord compression

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 spinal cord compression

Essential facts and insights about Cervical Spinal Cord Compression

The ICD-10 code for cervical spinal cord compression due to disc disorders is M50.0-. For non-traumatic causes, use G95.2.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for cervical spinal cord compression

Cord compression, unspecified
Non-billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Non-traumatic mechanism confirmed by imaging

Applicable To

  • Non-traumatic cervical spinal cord compression

Excludes

  • Traumatic spinal cord compression (S14.109A)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Non-traumatic mechanism
  • Imaging confirmation

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification if trauma is involved

Coding Notes

  • Ensure no trauma history is documented.

Ancillary Codes

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

Myelopathy in diseases classified elsewhere

G99.2
Use when myelopathy is due to a systemic disease.

Spinal stenosis, cervical region

M48.02
Use if coexisting cervical canal narrowing is documented.

Differential Codes

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

Cervical disc disorder with myelopathy

M50.0-
Use M50.0- if compression is due to disc pathology.

Cord compression, unspecified

G95.2
Use G95.2 for non-disc related compression.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Cervical Spinal Cord Compression to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code G95.2.

Impact

Clinical: Misdiagnosis risk, Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards, Financial: Denied claims

Mitigation Strategy

Document specific neurological signs, Include detailed physical exam findings

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment, Compliance: Potential audit risk, Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure trauma history is clearly documented to differentiate.

Impact

Inadequate documentation of trauma history.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure clear documentation of the traumatic event.

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 Spinal Cord Compression, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Cervical Spinal Cord Compression

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Cervical Spinal Cord Compression. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy

Specialty: Neurology

Required Elements

  • Symptoms
  • Imaging results
  • Physical exam findings

Example Documentation

65M with 6-month history of hand clumsiness, balance issues. MRI shows C4-C5 severe stenosis (AP diameter 8mm) compressing cord. Diagnosis: Cervical spondylotic myelopathy.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Neck pain with possible cord involvement.
Good Documentation Example
C6-C7 disc extrusion causing >30% spinal canal compromise with T2 hyperintensity on MRI.
Explanation
The good example provides specific imaging findings and severity.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Cervical Spinal Cord Compression? Ask your questions below.

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