ICD-10 Coding for Cervical Spine Herniated Disc(M50.1, M50.0)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Cervical Spine Herniated Disc. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Cervical Spine Herniated Disc
M50.0-M50.9Primary Range
Cervical disc disorders
This range includes all cervical disc disorders, including herniation with myelopathy, radiculopathy, and other displacements.
Radiculopathy and cervicalgia
These codes are used for symptoms related to cervical disc disorders when not directly linked to a specific disc condition.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| M50.1 | Cervical disc disorder with radiculopathy | Use when MRI confirms disc herniation with radiculopathy symptoms. |
|
| M50.0 | Cervical disc disorder with myelopathy | Use when MRI confirms disc herniation with myelopathy symptoms. |
|
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 spine herniated disc
Essential facts and insights about Cervical Spine Herniated Disc
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for cervical spine herniated disc
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of radiculopathy symptoms confirmed by imaging.
Applicable To
- Cervical disc herniation with radiculopathy
Excludes
- Cervical spondylosis with radiculopathy (M47.22)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- MRI showing disc herniation compressing nerve root
- EMG confirming radiculopathy
Code-Specific Risks
- Ensure radiculopathy is linked to disc herniation.
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies the level of herniation and associated symptoms.
M50.0 - Cervical disc disorder with myelopathy
Use when MRI confirms disc herniation with myelopathy symptoms.
Applicable To
- Cervical disc herniation with myelopathy
Excludes
- Cervical spondylotic myelopathy (M47.12)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- MRI showing spinal cord compression
- Clinical signs of myelopathy
Coding Notes
Document specific neurological deficits and imaging findings.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Cervical radiculopathy
M54.12Differential 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 Spine Herniated Disc to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M50.1.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment decisions., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Use standardized templates for documentation., Ensure thorough neurological exams are documented.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to claim denials or reduced reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding specificity requirements., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Query provider for specific cervical level of herniation.
Impact
Using unspecified codes when specific details are available.
Mitigation Strategy
Implement regular training on specificity 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 Spine Herniated Disc, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Cervical Spine Herniated Disc
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Cervical Spine Herniated Disc. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Cervical radiculopathy due to disc herniation
Specialty: NeurosurgeryRequired Elements
- Patient history
- Physical examination
- Imaging results
- Treatment plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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