ICD-10 Coding for Spondylosis Lumbosacral(M47.817, M47.27)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Spondylosis Lumbosacral. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Spondylosis Lumbosacral
M47.8-M47.9Primary Range
Other spondylosis and unspecified spondylosis
This range includes specific and unspecified codes for spondylosis, focusing on the lumbosacral region.
Spondylosis with myelopathy and radiculopathy
These codes are used when spondylosis is associated with neurological complications.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| M47.817 | Spondylosis without myelopathy or radiculopathy, lumbosacral region | Use when imaging shows degenerative changes without neurological symptoms. |
|
| M47.27 | Spondylosis with radiculopathy, lumbosacral region | Use when radicular symptoms are present and confirmed by diagnostic tests. |
|
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 lumbosacral
Essential facts and insights about Spondylosis Lumbosacral
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for spondylosis lumbosacral
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Imaging shows degenerative changes without neurological symptoms.
Applicable To
- Degenerative changes L5-S1
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Imaging confirmation of degenerative changes
- Absence of neurological deficits
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification if neurological symptoms are present
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies absence of myelopathy or radiculopathy.
M47.27 - Spondylosis with radiculopathy, lumbosacral region
Use when radicular symptoms are present and confirmed by diagnostic tests.
Applicable To
- Radicular pain extending to L4 dermatome
Excludes
- Spondylosis without radiculopathy (M47.817)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Positive SLR test
- EMG/NCS confirmation
Coding Notes
Document specific radicular symptoms and confirmatory tests.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Low back pain
M54.5Differential 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 Lumbosacral to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code M47.817.
Impact
Clinical: Leads to non-specific diagnosis., Regulatory: May not meet payer requirements., Financial: Potential for claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Always specify the spinal level in documentation.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Use M47.817 with Z98.1 to indicate spinal fusion status.
Impact
High error rate in coding radiculopathy without confirmatory tests.
Mitigation Strategy
Require EMG confirmation 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 Lumbosacral, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Spondylosis Lumbosacral
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Spondylosis Lumbosacral. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Neurosurgery H&P
Specialty: NeurosurgeryRequired Elements
- Imaging findings
- Neurological exam results
- Functional limitations
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Spondylosis Lumbosacral? Ask your questions below.