ICD-10 Coding for Spondylosis Deformans(M47.811, M47.817, M47.9)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Spondylosis Deformans. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Spondylosis Deformans
M47.81-M47.9Primary Range
Spondylosis without myelopathy or radiculopathy
This range covers the primary codes for spondylosis deformans affecting different spinal regions.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| M47.811 | Spondylosis without myelopathy or radiculopathy, occipito-atlanto-axial region | Use when spondylosis is confirmed in the occipito-atlanto-axial region without neurological deficits. |
|
| M47.817 | Spondylosis without myelopathy or radiculopathy, lumbosacral region | Use when spondylosis is confirmed in the lumbosacral region without neurological deficits. |
|
| M47.9 | Spondylosis, unspecified | Use when the specific spinal region is not documented. |
|
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 spondylosis deformans
Essential facts and insights about Spondylosis Deformans
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for spondylosis deformans
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Confirmed osteophytes in C0-C2 without neurological symptoms.
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Imaging showing ventral osteophytes
- Neck pain or stiffness
Code-Specific Risks
- Misidentifying the region can lead to incorrect coding.
Coding Notes
- Ensure imaging reports specify the region and confirm absence of myelopathy.
M47.817 - Spondylosis without myelopathy or radiculopathy, lumbosacral region
Use when spondylosis is confirmed in the lumbosacral region without neurological deficits.
Applicable To
- Degenerative changes in L5-S1
Excludes
- Spondylosis with myelopathy (M47.21-M47.29)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- X-ray/MRI showing bridging osteophytes
- Limited lumbar range of motion
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation specifies the absence of radiculopathy or myelopathy.
M47.9 - Spondylosis, unspecified
Use when the specific spinal region is not documented.
Applicable To
- Degenerative changes without specified region
Excludes
- Spondylosis with myelopathy or radiculopathy
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Generalized degenerative changes without specific region
Coding Notes
Use only when documentation does not specify the affected region.
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 Spondylosis Deformans to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M47.811.
Impact
Clinical: Leads to non-specific treatment plans., Regulatory: Increases audit risk., Financial: May result in denied claims.
Mitigation Strategy
Use specific terminology in documentation, Ensure imaging reports are detailed
Impact
Reimbursement: Reduced reimbursement due to lack of specificity., Compliance: Potential audit risk for non-specific coding., Data Quality: Decreased accuracy in clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Always use the most specific code available based on documentation.
Impact
Using unspecified codes when specific information is available.
Mitigation Strategy
Review documentation for specific details before coding.
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 Spondylosis Deformans, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Spondylosis Deformans
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Spondylosis Deformans. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Neurosurgery evaluation for cervical spondylosis
Specialty: NeurosurgeryRequired Elements
- Imaging findings
- Symptoms
- Neurologic exam
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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