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ICD-10 Coding for Retrolisthesis(M43.1)

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

Also known as:

Retrospondylolisthesis

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Retrolisthesis

M43.1Primary Range

Spondylolisthesis

This range includes retrolisthesis as it is a type of spondylolisthesis characterized by backward slippage of a vertebra.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for retrolisthesis

Essential facts and insights about Retrolisthesis

The ICD-10 code for retrolisthesis is M43.1, which includes all types of spondylolisthesis.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for retrolisthesis

Spondylolisthesis
Non-billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Imaging confirms ≥2mm posterior slippage.

documentation Criteria

  • Documentation includes vertebral level and direction.

Applicable To

  • Retrolisthesis

Excludes

  • Disc displacement without vertebral slippage

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Imaging showing ≥2mm posterior slippage
  • Documentation of vertebral level and direction

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification with disc displacement codes

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies the direction of slippage and vertebral level.

Ancillary Codes

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

Cervical radiculopathy

M54.12
Use when neurological symptoms are present.

Differential Codes

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

Cervical disc displacement

M50.22
Use only if imaging confirms disc displacement without vertebral slippage.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Retrolisthesis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M43.1.

Impact

Clinical: Leads to incomplete clinical records., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials or audits.

Mitigation Strategy

Use templates with required fields, Regular training on documentation standards

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Always use M43.1 for retrolisthesis unless pure disc pathology is confirmed.

Impact

Coding M43.1 without imaging confirmation of slippage.

Mitigation Strategy

Require imaging reports for all cases coded as M43.1.

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

Documentation Templates for Retrolisthesis

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

Neurosurgery Progress Note

Specialty: Neurosurgery

Required Elements

  • Vertebral level
  • Direction of slippage
  • Imaging findings
  • Neurological symptoms

Example Documentation

Assessment: Retrolisthesis C5-C6 (M43.12) - 3mm posterior displacement on upright flexion X-rays. Plan: Posterior cervical fusion C5-C6 (CPT 22600).

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Cervical instability
Good Documentation Example
Retrolisthesis C5-C6 with 3mm posterior displacement, causing moderate foraminal stenosis (M43.12, M99.03)
Explanation
The good example specifies the vertebral level, direction, and associated conditions.

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

Ask about any ICD-10 CM code, or paste a medical note

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