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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM41.56

M41.56

Billable

Other secondary scoliosis, lumbar region

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M41.56 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other secondary scoliosis, lumbar region.

Key Diagnostic Point:

M41.56 refers to a specific type of scoliosis that occurs in the lumbar region of the spine and is classified as secondary scoliosis. This condition arises due to underlying factors such as neuromuscular disorders, congenital anomalies, or previous spinal surgeries that alter the normal curvature of the spine. Secondary scoliosis can manifest as a compensatory mechanism in response to other spinal deformities or conditions, such as kyphosis or lordosis. Patients may present with symptoms including back pain, postural abnormalities, and reduced mobility. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough clinical examination, imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI, and assessment of the patient's medical history. Treatment options may vary based on the severity of the curvature and underlying causes, ranging from physical therapy and bracing to surgical interventions like spinal fusion. Accurate coding of M41.56 is crucial for proper management and reimbursement, as it reflects the complexity of the patient's condition and the necessity for tailored treatment approaches.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

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

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of underlying conditions
  • Failure to specify the type of scoliosis
  • Lack of imaging studies to support diagnosis
  • Incorrect linkage of diagnosis to treatment procedures

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes, imaging results, and treatment plans must be documented.

Common Clinical Scenarios

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

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all contributing factors to scoliosis are documented to support the use of M41.56.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Functional assessments, treatment progress notes, and patient history.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Rehabilitation of patients with secondary scoliosis post-surgery or due to chronic conditions.

Billing Considerations

Focus on documenting functional limitations and response to therapy.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M41.56 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, M41
  • 56 should be used when scoliosis is secondary to another condition
  • Coders must ensure that the underlying cause is documented and that the scoliosis is specifically identified as lumbar

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M41.56 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

22612CPT Code

Spinal fusion, lumbar

Clinical Scenario

Used in surgical treatment of severe lumbar scoliosis.

Documentation Requirements

Operative reports and pre-operative assessments must be included.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the rationale for surgery related to scoliosis.

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 diagnosis and treatment tracking. M41.56 provides a clear classification for secondary scoliosis, which aids in 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 diagnosis and treatment tracking. M41.56 provides a clear classification for secondary scoliosis, which aids in 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 any identifiable cause, while secondary scoliosis is due to underlying conditions such as neuromuscular disorders, congenital anomalies, or previous surgeries.