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ICD-10 Coding for Syringomyelia(G95.0, Q07.0)

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

Also known as:

SyringobulbiaCongenital syringomyeliaPost-traumatic syringomyeliaIdiopathic syringomyelia

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Syringomyelia

G95.0Primary Range

Syringomyelia and syringobulbia

Primary code for syringomyelia and syringobulbia, used when no more specific congenital code applies.

Hydromyelia

Used for congenital central canal dilation without parenchymal damage, differentiating from syringomyelia.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
G95.0Syringomyelia and syringobulbiaUse when syringomyelia is diagnosed and confirmed by MRI, with or without symptoms.
  • MRI confirmation of syrinx
  • Symptoms such as muscle weakness or sensory loss
Q07.0Chiari malformation type IUse when syringomyelia is secondary to Chiari malformation.
  • MRI showing cerebellar tonsillar herniation

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 syringomyelia

Essential facts and insights about Syringomyelia

The ICD-10 code for syringomyelia is G95.0, which includes syringomyelia and syringobulbia.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for syringomyelia

Syringomyelia and syringobulbia
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • MRI confirmation of syrinx presence

documentation Criteria

  • Specify etiology if known (e.g., post-traumatic, Chiari-associated)

Applicable To

  • Syringomyelia
  • Syringobulbia

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • MRI confirmation of syrinx
  • Symptoms such as muscle weakness or sensory loss

Code-Specific Risks

  • Omitting underlying cause when one exists
  • Confusing with hydromyelia

Coding Notes

  • Ensure to document the type and any associated conditions clearly.

Ancillary Codes

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

Spinal stenosis

M48.0
Use if spinal stenosis contributes to syrinx formation.

CSF leak

G96.1
Use if a CSF leak is present.

Differential Codes

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

Hydromyelia

Q06.4
Hydromyelia involves central canal dilation, while syringomyelia involves an eccentric cyst.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Syringomyelia to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code G95.0.

Impact

Clinical: Lack of detailed information can hinder treatment planning., Regulatory: May lead to non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Can affect reimbursement if coding is incomplete.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure detailed documentation of symptoms and etiology., Regular training on documentation standards.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect sequencing can affect DRG assignment and reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate data representation of patient conditions.

Mitigation Strategy

Always code the underlying cause first if known.

Impact

Failure to sequence underlying conditions first can lead to audits.

Mitigation Strategy

Educate coding staff on sequencing rules and conduct regular audits.

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

Documentation Templates for Syringomyelia

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

Syringomyelia secondary to Chiari malformation

Specialty: Neurosurgery

Required Elements

  • MRI findings
  • Symptoms
  • Etiology

Example Documentation

Assessment: 1. Syringomyelia (G95.0) secondary to Chiari I malformation (Q07.0). MRI findings: 8mm x 12cm syrinx extending C3-T2 with cerebellar tonsils 7mm below foramen magnum. Symptoms: Left-hand atrophy, dissociative sensory loss (pinprick absent C5-T1).

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient has syringomyelia. Follow-up in 6 months.
Good Documentation Example
Idiopathic syringomyelia (G95.0) with stable C2-T1 syrinx on MRI (3/27/2025). Symptoms: Intermittent neck stiffness, no new weakness. Plan: Annual MRI unless symptoms progress.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details on the syrinx location, symptoms, and follow-up plan, enhancing clinical clarity.

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

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