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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM41.55

M41.55

Billable

Other secondary scoliosis, thoracolumbar region

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M41.55 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other secondary scoliosis, thoracolumbar region.

Key Diagnostic Point:

M41.55 refers to a specific type of scoliosis that occurs in the thoracolumbar region of the spine, which is the area encompassing the lower thoracic and upper lumbar vertebrae. This condition is classified as secondary scoliosis, meaning it arises as a result of another underlying condition or factor, such as neuromuscular disorders, congenital anomalies, or previous spinal injuries. Patients with M41.55 may present with a variety of symptoms, including uneven shoulders, a prominent rib cage, or back pain. The thoracolumbar region is particularly significant as it bears much of the body's weight and is crucial for mobility. Treatment options may include physical therapy, bracing, or surgical interventions such as spinal fusion, depending on the severity and underlying cause of the scoliosis. Accurate diagnosis and coding are essential for effective treatment planning and reimbursement.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between primary and secondary scoliosis
  • Identifying the underlying conditions causing scoliosis
  • Variability in clinical presentation and severity
  • Need for comprehensive documentation to support the diagnosis

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the underlying condition
  • Failure to specify the thoracolumbar region
  • Misclassification of scoliosis type
  • Lack of supporting imaging or clinical findings

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes, imaging studies, and treatment plans must be documented to support the diagnosis and any surgical interventions.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with progressive scoliosis due to neuromuscular disorders or post-surgical changes.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that the documentation clearly states the type of scoliosis and any associated conditions.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Functional assessments, treatment plans, and progress notes are essential for justifying therapy and interventions.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients requiring rehabilitation post-surgery or those with scoliosis impacting mobility.

Billing Considerations

Document the impact of scoliosis on daily activities and the effectiveness of rehabilitation efforts.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M41.55 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the diagnosis is supported by clinical documentation
  • 55 should be used when the scoliosis is secondary to another condition, and the thoracolumbar region is specifically affected

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M41.55 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

22612CPT Code

Spinal fusion, posterior technique

Clinical Scenario

Used in surgical correction of severe scoliosis cases.

Documentation Requirements

Operative reports detailing the procedure and indications for surgery.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the rationale for surgical intervention.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of scoliosis types, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment planning. M41.55 provides a clear distinction for secondary scoliosis, facilitating better patient management and reimbursement processes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of scoliosis types, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment planning. M41.55 provides a clear distinction for secondary scoliosis, facilitating better patient 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 primary and secondary scoliosis?

Primary scoliosis occurs without an identifiable cause, while secondary scoliosis is due to an underlying condition, such as a neuromuscular disorder or trauma.