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ICD-10 Coding for Tarlov Cyst(G96.191)

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

Also known as:

Perineural CystSacral Nerve Root Cyst

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Tarlov Cyst

G96.1-G96.19Primary Range

Disorders of meninges, not elsewhere classified

This range includes specific codes for meningeal disorders, with G96.191 specifically for Tarlov cysts.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for Tarlov cyst

Essential facts and insights about Tarlov Cyst

The ICD-10 code for a Tarlov cyst is G96.191, used when imaging confirms the cyst with specific size and location.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for tarlov cyst

Perineural (Tarlov) cyst
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • MRI confirmation of a sacral cyst with nerve root involvement.

documentation Criteria

  • Detailed documentation of cyst size and symptoms.

Applicable To

  • Sacral nerve root cyst

Excludes

  • Cerebral cysts (G93.0)
  • Spinal meningeal cyst (D32.0)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • MRI or CT confirmation of cyst
  • Documentation of cyst size and location
  • Symptoms correlating with cyst location

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly coding as G96.19 without specifying 'Tarlov' or 'perineural'.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies 'Tarlov' or 'perineural' to avoid miscoding.

Ancillary Codes

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

Radiculopathy, lumbar region

M54.16
Use when radicular symptoms are present.

Unspecified urinary incontinence

R32
Use for bladder dysfunction associated with the cyst.

Differential Codes

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

Cerebral cysts

G93.0
Use only for intracranial cysts, not spinal.

Spinal meningeal cyst

D32.0
Use for non-Tarlov meningeal cysts.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Tarlov Cyst to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code G96.191.

Impact

Clinical: Inadequate assessment of cyst impact., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Always document cyst size in imaging reports.

Impact

Reimbursement: Potential denial due to incorrect coding., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate data on meningeal disorders.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation specifies 'Tarlov' or 'perineural'.

Impact

Lack of detailed imaging reports can lead to audit issues.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure all imaging reports are detailed and included in the patient record.

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

Documentation Templates for Tarlov Cyst

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

Chronic sacral pain with Tarlov cyst

Specialty: Neurosurgery

Required Elements

  • Pain distribution
  • Neurological deficits
  • Imaging results

Example Documentation

Patient presents with chronic sacral pain radiating to bilateral legs, worsened over 6 months. MRI shows 1.5 cm Tarlov cyst at S2 with nerve root compression. Failed NSAIDs and physical therapy for 8 weeks.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Low back pain, cyst present.
Good Documentation Example
Severe sacral pain radiating to posterior thighs (VAS 8/10), 1.8 cm Tarlov cyst at S2 compressing nerve root on MRI, failed gabapentin + PT x8 weeks.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details about pain, imaging findings, and treatment history.

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

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