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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM48.061

M48.061

Billable

Spinal stenosis, lumbar region without neurogenic claudication

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/17/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 M48.061 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of spinal stenosis, lumbar region without neurogenic claudication.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Spinal stenosis in the lumbar region refers to the narrowing of the spinal canal, which can lead to pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. This condition can arise from various factors, including degenerative changes, congenital abnormalities, or trauma. In cases where there is no neurogenic claudication, patients typically do not experience the characteristic leg pain or cramping associated with nerve compression during physical activity. Symptoms may include lower back pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. The absence of neurogenic claudication suggests that while there is spinal stenosis, the nerve roots are not significantly affected, allowing for a different clinical management approach. Diagnosis often involves imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans to visualize the degree of stenosis and rule out other conditions. Treatment options may include physical therapy, pain management, and in some cases, surgical intervention to relieve pressure on the spinal structures.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between spinal stenosis with and without neurogenic claudication.
  • Understanding the various causes of spinal stenosis.
  • Accurate documentation of symptoms and clinical findings.
  • Navigating related codes for spondylopathies and inflammatory spine conditions.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of symptoms leading to misclassification.
  • Failure to specify the absence of neurogenic claudication.
  • Incorrect coding due to overlapping symptoms with other spinal conditions.
  • Lack of imaging documentation to support the diagnosis.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed notes on physical examination findings, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with lower back pain and imaging showing lumbar stenosis.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clarity in distinguishing between stenosis types and documenting treatment rationale.

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive neurological assessments and correlation with imaging findings.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with neurological symptoms potentially related to lumbar stenosis.

Billing Considerations

Focus on documenting neurological deficits or the absence thereof to support coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M48.061 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, M48
  • 061 should be used when spinal stenosis is confirmed in the lumbar region without neurogenic claudication
  • Documentation must clearly indicate the absence of neurogenic symptoms and any relevant imaging findings

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M48.061 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

63030CPT Code

Laminectomy, lumbar

Clinical Scenario

When surgical intervention is required for lumbar stenosis.

Documentation Requirements

Surgical notes must detail the procedure and rationale for surgery.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the specific indications for surgery.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of spinal conditions, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. M48.061 provides a clear distinction between types of spinal stenosis, which aids in clinical management and reimbursement processes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of spinal conditions, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. M48.061 provides a clear distinction between types of spinal stenosis, which aids in clinical management and reimbursement processes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between M48.061 and M48.062?

M48.061 is used when spinal stenosis is present without neurogenic claudication, while M48.062 is for cases where neurogenic claudication is evident, indicating nerve root involvement.