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ICD-10 Coding for Lumbar Anterolisthesis(M43.16)

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

Also known as:

Lumbar SpondylolisthesisVertebral Slippage

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Lumbar Anterolisthesis

M43.1-M43.19Primary Range

Spondylolisthesis

This range includes codes for spondylolisthesis, which encompasses lumbar anterolisthesis.

Radiculopathy

Used when radiculopathy is present alongside lumbar anterolisthesis.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for lumbar anterolisthesis

Essential facts and insights about Lumbar Anterolisthesis

The ICD-10 code for lumbar anterolisthesis is M43.16, used for acquired cases confirmed by imaging.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for lumbar anterolisthesis

Spondylolisthesis, lumbar region
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of lumbar vertebral slippage on imaging

documentation Criteria

  • Detailed imaging report specifying slippage grade

Applicable To

  • Lumbar anterolisthesis

Excludes

  • Congenital spondylolisthesis (Q76.2)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Imaging confirmation of vertebral slippage
  • Documentation of slippage grade

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification with congenital spondylolisthesis

Coding Notes

  • Ensure imaging reports specify the grade and level of slippage.

Ancillary Codes

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

Radiculopathy, lumbar region

M54.16
Use when radiculopathy is present with lumbar anterolisthesis.

Differential Codes

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

Congenital spondylolisthesis

Q76.2
Use Q76.2 for congenital cases with documented dysplastic facets.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Lumbar Anterolisthesis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M43.16.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment plans., Regulatory: Fails to meet documentation standards., Financial: Can result in claim denials or reduced reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Use specific clinical terms and imaging findings, Document neurological exam results clearly

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Misclassification affects compliance with coding standards., Data Quality: Impacts accuracy of patient records and data analysis.

Mitigation Strategy

Verify patient history and imaging to distinguish between congenital and acquired cases.

Impact

Risk of selecting incorrect code for congenital vs. acquired cases.

Mitigation Strategy

Implement thorough review of patient history and imaging.

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

Documentation Templates for Lumbar Anterolisthesis

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

Lumbar Anterolisthesis with Radiculopathy

Specialty: Orthopedics

Required Elements

  • Imaging findings
  • Neurological exam results
  • Conservative treatment history

Example Documentation

Patient presents with grade II L4-L5 anterolisthesis confirmed by MRI, with radiculopathy evidenced by positive straight leg raise and L5 dermatome numbness.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient has lower back pain.
Good Documentation Example
Patient presents with L4-L5 anterolisthesis grade 2 confirmed by MRI, with radiculopathy evidenced by positive straight leg raise and L5 dermatome numbness.
Explanation
The good example provides specific imaging findings and correlates them with clinical symptoms.

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

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