ICD-10 Coding for Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy(M47.12, M50.02-)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy
M47-M50Primary Range
Spondylosis and disc disorders of the cervical spine
This range includes codes for cervical spondylosis and disc disorders, both of which can cause myelopathy.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| M47.12 | Spondylosis with myelopathy, cervical region | Use when myelopathy is due to spondylotic changes in the cervical spine. |
|
| M50.02- | Cervical disc disorder with myelopathy | Use when myelopathy is due to a cervical disc disorder. |
|
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 spondylotic myelopathy
Essential facts and insights about Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for cervical spondylotic myelopathy
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of cervical spondylosis with MRI evidence of cord compression
Applicable To
- Cervical spondylosis with cord compression
Excludes
- Cervical disc disorder with myelopathy (M50.0-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- MRI showing spinal cord compression
- T2 hyperintensity indicating myelomalacia
Code-Specific Risks
- Confusion with radiculopathy codes
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies the cause of myelopathy.
M50.02- - Cervical disc disorder with myelopathy
Use when myelopathy is due to a cervical disc disorder.
Applicable To
- Disc herniation causing myelopathy
Excludes
- Spondylosis with myelopathy (M47.12)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- MRI showing disc extrusion compressing the spinal cord
Coding Notes
Document the specific disc level affected.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Differential 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 Spondylotic Myelopathy to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M47.12.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to misdiagnosis or inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Could result in coding audits and compliance issues., Financial: Affects reimbursement due to incorrect DRG assignment.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure detailed neurological examination is documented., Include imaging findings in the assessment.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to improper DRG assignment., Compliance: May result in audit issues if coding does not match documentation., Data Quality: Affects the accuracy of clinical data and outcomes.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation specifies spinal cord involvement for myelopathy.
Impact
Failure to document specific neurological signs and imaging findings.
Mitigation Strategy
Use standardized templates and ensure thorough documentation of clinical 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 Spondylotic Myelopathy, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Neurology Evaluation for Cervical Myelopathy
Specialty: NeurologyRequired Elements
- Patient history
- Neurological exam findings
- Imaging results
- Assessment and plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy? Ask your questions below.