Cauda equina syndrome
ICD-10 G83.4 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of cauda equina syndrome.
Cauda equina syndrome (CES) is a serious neurological condition that occurs when the cauda equina, a bundle of spinal nerves located at the lower end of the spinal cord, becomes compressed. This compression can lead to a variety of symptoms, including severe lower back pain, loss of sensation in the legs, bowel and bladder dysfunction, and motor weakness. The condition can result from various causes, including herniated discs, spinal stenosis, tumors, or trauma. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are critical, as untreated CES can lead to permanent paralysis, loss of bladder and bowel control, and other significant mobility impairments. Patients may experience varying degrees of paralysis, including paraplegia (loss of function in the lower limbs) or quadriplegia (loss of function in all four limbs), depending on the severity and location of the nerve compression. The management of CES often involves surgical intervention to relieve pressure on the nerves, followed by rehabilitation to address mobility impairments and improve quality of life.
Detailed neurological examination findings, including motor and sensory assessments, and imaging results.
Patients presenting with acute lower back pain and neurological deficits, requiring urgent evaluation.
Ensure clear documentation of the onset of symptoms and any interventions performed.
Surgical notes detailing the procedure performed to relieve nerve compression and post-operative assessments.
Patients undergoing decompression surgery for herniated discs or spinal stenosis leading to CES.
Document the rationale for surgical intervention and any pre-existing mobility impairments.
Used in surgical treatment of cauda equina syndrome due to herniated disc.
Operative report detailing the procedure and indication for surgery.
Orthopedic or neurosurgical documentation must clearly outline the necessity of the procedure.
Common causes include herniated discs, spinal stenosis, tumors, and trauma. Each cause can lead to varying degrees of nerve compression and associated symptoms.
Diagnosis typically involves a thorough clinical examination, assessment of neurological function, and imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans to visualize nerve compression.
Treatment often involves surgical intervention to relieve pressure on the cauda equina, followed by rehabilitation to address mobility impairments and restore function.
