ICD-10 Coding for Disc Prolapse(M51.2, M50.1)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Disc Prolapse. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Disc Prolapse
M50-M51Primary Range
Disorders of cervical and other intervertebral discs
This range includes codes for cervical and lumbar disc disorders, including herniation and displacement.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| M51.2 | Other specified intervertebral disc displacement | Use for lumbar disc herniation with nerve root compression. |
|
| M50.1 | Cervical disc disorder with radiculopathy | Use for cervical disc herniation with radiculopathy. |
|
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 lumbar disc herniation
Essential facts and insights about Disc Prolapse
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for disc prolapse
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of radicular symptoms and MRI confirmation
Applicable To
- Lumbar disc herniation
- Lumbosacral disc herniation
Clinical Validation Requirements
- MRI showing disc material beyond interspace compressing nerve
- Positive straight-leg raise test
Code-Specific Risks
- Misidentifying disc bulge as herniation
- Incorrectly sequencing with chronic pain codes
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies nerve root involvement and imaging findings.
M50.1 - Cervical disc disorder with radiculopathy
Use for cervical disc herniation with radiculopathy.
Applicable To
- Cervical radiculopathy due to disc disorder
Excludes
- Cervical disc disorder with myelopathy (M50.0-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Radicular symptoms such as dermatomal numbness
- Imaging showing foraminal narrowing and nerve root compression
Coding Notes
Document specific nerve root affected and correlate with imaging.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Chronic pain syndrome
G89.4Differential 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 Disc Prolapse to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M51.2.
Impact
Clinical: Inadequate information for treatment planning., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Include detailed MRI reports, Ensure documentation of nerve compression
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data affecting patient care.
Mitigation Strategy
Require documentation of nerve compression or extrusion/protrusion.
Impact
Using radiculopathy codes without proper documentation.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure all radicular symptoms and imaging findings are documented.
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 Disc Prolapse, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Disc Prolapse
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Disc Prolapse. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Lumbar Disc Herniation with Radiculopathy
Specialty: NeurosurgeryRequired Elements
- MRI findings
- Radicular symptoms
- Surgical plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Disc Prolapse? Ask your questions below.