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ICD-10 Coding for Cervical Cord Compression(G95.2, M50.0-, G99.2)

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

Also known as:

Cervical MyelopathySpinal Cord Compression in the Neck

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Cervical Cord Compression

G95.2Primary Range

Cord compression, unspecified

Primary code for non-traumatic cervical cord compression not otherwise specified.

Cervical disc disorder with myelopathy

Used when cervical cord compression is due to disc herniation or degeneration.

Myelopathy in diseases classified elsewhere

Used as a secondary code for myelopathy due to underlying conditions like neoplasms.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
G95.2Cord compression, unspecifiedUse for non-traumatic cervical cord compression not otherwise specified.
  • MRI showing cord flattening
  • Clinical signs of myelopathy
M50.0-Cervical disc disorder with myelopathyUse when cervical cord compression is due to disc herniation.
  • MRI showing disc herniation compressing the cord
  • Symptoms of myelopathy
G99.2Myelopathy in diseases classified elsewhereUse as a secondary code for myelopathy due to underlying conditions.
  • Underlying condition causing myelopathy
  • MRI findings consistent with myelopathy

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 cervical cord compression

Essential facts and insights about Cervical Cord Compression

The ICD-10 code for cervical cord compression is G95.2 for non-traumatic cases and M50.0- for disc-related compression.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for cervical cord compression

Cord compression, unspecified
Non-billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • MRI shows cord compression without disc involvement.

Applicable To

  • Non-traumatic spinal cord compression

Excludes

  • Compression due to disc displacement (use M50.0-)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • MRI showing cord flattening
  • Clinical signs of myelopathy

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misuse for disc-related compression

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies non-traumatic origin.

Ancillary Codes

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

Myelopathy in diseases classified elsewhere

G99.2
Use as a secondary code for myelopathy due to other diseases.

Differential Codes

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

Cervical disc disorder with myelopathy

M50.0-
Use when compression is due to disc herniation.

Cord compression, unspecified

G95.2
Use for non-disc related compression.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Cervical 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: Misdiagnosis risk, Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards, Financial: Potential reimbursement issues

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure imaging reports specify compression cause.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment may reduce reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data affecting patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Use M50.0- for disc-related compression.

Impact

Risk of selecting incorrect primary code for compression.

Mitigation Strategy

Regular training on code differentiation.

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 Cervical Cord Compression, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Cervical Cord Compression

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

Cervical myelopathy due to disc herniation

Specialty: Neurology

Required Elements

  • MRI findings
  • Clinical symptoms
  • Neurological exam results

Example Documentation

Patient presents with gait ataxia and positive Hoffman’s sign. MRI shows C5-C6 disc herniation compressing the spinal cord.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Cervical pain with possible cord involvement.
Good Documentation Example
MRI confirms C5-C6 disc extrusion causing spinal cord compression with T2 hyperintensity.
Explanation
The good example provides specific imaging findings and clinical relevance.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Cervical Cord Compression? Ask your questions below.

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