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ICD-10 Coding for Lumbar Spondylolysis(M43.06)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Lumbar Spondylolysis. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Pars DefectLumbar Stress Fracture

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Lumbar Spondylolysis

M43.0-M43.1Primary Range

Spondylolysis and Spondylolisthesis

This range includes codes for spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis, which are critical for coding lumbar spine conditions.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for lumbar spondylolysis

Essential facts and insights about Lumbar Spondylolysis

The ICD-10 code for lumbar spondylolysis is M43.06, used when imaging confirms a pars defect without vertebral slippage.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for lumbar spondylolysis

Spondylolysis, lumbar region
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Imaging shows pars defect without slippage.

Applicable To

  • Lumbar pars defect
  • Lumbar stress fracture

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • CT or MRI confirmation of pars defect
  • Absence of vertebral slippage

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly coding as spondylolisthesis without slippage evidence

Coding Notes

  • Ensure imaging studies are documented to support the diagnosis.

Ancillary Codes

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

Low back pain

M54.5
Use as a secondary code if pain is documented.

Differential Codes

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

Spondylolisthesis, lumbar region

M43.16
Presence of vertebral slippage >3mm on imaging.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Lumbar Spondylolysis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M43.06.

Impact

Clinical: Leads to vague clinical records., Regulatory: Non-compliance with specificity requirements., Financial: Potential for claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Use specific codes based on imaging findings., Ensure documentation supports the chosen code.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to claim denials., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data affecting patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Verify imaging for slippage before coding spondylolisthesis.

Impact

Lack of imaging documentation can lead to audit flags.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure all imaging studies are included in the patient's record.

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 Lumbar Spondylolysis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Lumbar Spondylolysis

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Lumbar Spondylolysis. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Orthopedic Evaluation for Lumbar Spondylolysis

Specialty: Orthopedics

Required Elements

  • Patient history
  • Physical examination findings
  • Imaging results
  • Diagnosis

Example Documentation

Patient presents with low back pain exacerbated by extension. CT confirms bilateral L5 pars defects without slippage.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Low back pain, rule out spondylolysis.
Good Documentation Example
Mechanical LBP with positive stork test; CT shows 3mm non-union L5 pars defect without listhesis.
Explanation
The good example provides specific imaging findings and clinical tests supporting the diagnosis.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Lumbar Spondylolysis? Ask your questions below.

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