ICD-10 Coding for Cervical Myeloradiculopathy(M50.022, M50.122)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Cervical Myeloradiculopathy. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Cervical Myeloradiculopathy
M50.0-M50.1Primary Range
Cervical disc disorders with myelopathy and radiculopathy
This range includes codes for cervical disc disorders with myelopathy and radiculopathy, essential for coding cervical myeloradiculopathy.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| M50.022 | Cervical disc disorder at C5-C6 level with myelopathy | Use when there is documented C5-C6 disc disorder with myelopathy. |
|
| M50.122 | Cervical disc disorder at C5-C6 level with radiculopathy | Use when there is documented C5-C6 disc disorder with radiculopathy. |
|
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 myeloradiculopathy
Essential facts and insights about Cervical Myeloradiculopathy
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for cervical myeloradiculopathy
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of myelopathic signs and MRI evidence of cord compression
Applicable To
- C5-C6 disc herniation with myelopathy
Excludes
- Cervical spondylosis with myelopathy (M47.12)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- MRI showing cord compression at C5-C6
- Presence of myelopathic signs such as hyperreflexia
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrectly coding without myelopathic signs
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation supports myelopathy at the specific cervical level.
M50.122 - Cervical disc disorder at C5-C6 level with radiculopathy
Use when there is documented C5-C6 disc disorder with radiculopathy.
Applicable To
- C5-C6 disc herniation with radiculopathy
Excludes
- Cervical spondylosis with radiculopathy (M47.22)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- EMG confirming C6 radiculopathy
- Dermatomal pain and sensory loss
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation supports radiculopathy at the specific cervical level.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Cervicalgia
M54.2Differential 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 Cervical Myeloradiculopathy to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M50.022.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to misdiagnosis or inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for claim denials or reduced reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure thorough documentation of all neurological findings., Use templates to guide comprehensive documentation.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to claim denials or reduced reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Decreases the accuracy of clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Always use the most specific code available, such as M50.022 for C5-C6 myelopathy.
Impact
High risk of audit if unspecified codes are used when specific codes are available.
Mitigation Strategy
Always use the most specific code available and ensure documentation supports code selection.
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 Myeloradiculopathy, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Cervical Myeloradiculopathy
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Cervical Myeloradiculopathy. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Cervical myeloradiculopathy with surgical intervention
Specialty: NeurosurgeryRequired Elements
- Neurological exam findings
- Imaging results
- EMG findings
- Surgical plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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