ICD-10 Coding for Spinal Cord Compression(G95.2, M50.0, C79.51)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Spinal Cord Compression. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Spinal Cord Compression
G95.2Primary Range
Non-traumatic spinal cord compression
Primary code for non-traumatic spinal cord compression not due to neoplasm or disc disorders.
Cervical disc disorder with myelopathy
Used when spinal cord compression is due to cervical disc displacement.
Secondary malignant neoplasm of bone
Used when spinal cord compression is due to metastatic neoplasm.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| G95.2 | Non-traumatic spinal cord compression | Use when spinal cord compression is non-traumatic and not due to neoplasm or disc disorders. |
|
| M50.0 | Cervical disc disorder with myelopathy | Use when spinal cord compression is due to cervical disc displacement. |
|
| C79.51 | Secondary malignant neoplasm of bone | Use when spinal cord compression is due to metastatic neoplasm. |
|
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 spinal cord compression
Essential facts and insights about Spinal Cord Compression
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for spinal cord compression
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- MRI confirmation of non-traumatic compression
documentation Criteria
- Absence of trauma or neoplasm in documentation
Applicable To
- Spinal cord compression without trauma or neoplasm
Excludes
- Traumatic spinal cord compression
- Spinal cord compression due to neoplasm
Clinical Validation Requirements
- MRI showing spinal cord compression
- Clinical symptoms such as motor/sensory deficits
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrectly using for traumatic or neoplastic causes
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies non-traumatic etiology.
M50.0 - Cervical disc disorder with myelopathy
Use when spinal cord compression is due to cervical disc displacement.
Applicable To
- Cervical disc displacement causing myelopathy
Excludes
- Non-traumatic spinal cord compression
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Imaging showing disc displacement
- Symptoms of myelopathy
Coding Notes
Document specific disc levels involved.
C79.51 - Secondary malignant neoplasm of bone
Use when spinal cord compression is due to metastatic neoplasm.
Applicable To
- Metastatic bone cancer causing spinal cord compression
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Cancer diagnosis with imaging showing metastasis
Coding Notes
Ensure primary cancer site is documented.
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 Spinal Cord Compression to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code G95.2.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment plans., Regulatory: Fails to meet coding compliance standards., Financial: Potential for claim denials or reduced reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure detailed clinical notes., Confirm imaging findings are documented.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Use appropriate traumatic injury codes instead.
Impact
Failure to sequence neoplasm codes before compression codes.
Mitigation Strategy
Educate coders on correct sequencing rules.
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 Spinal Cord Compression, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Spinal Cord Compression
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Spinal Cord Compression. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Spinal cord compression due to metastatic cancer
Specialty: OncologyRequired Elements
- Patient history
- Imaging results
- Cancer diagnosis
- Neurological assessment
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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