ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM41.85

M41.85

Billable

Other forms of scoliosis, thoracolumbar region

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M41.85 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other forms of scoliosis, thoracolumbar region.

Key Diagnostic Point:

M41.85 refers to other forms of scoliosis affecting the thoracolumbar region of the spine. Scoliosis is characterized by an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine, which can occur in various forms, including idiopathic, congenital, and neuromuscular scoliosis. The thoracolumbar region specifically encompasses the lower thoracic and upper lumbar vertebrae, which can be affected by various deformities leading to functional impairment and pain. Patients may present with asymmetry in shoulder height, rib prominence, or pelvic tilt. The condition can lead to complications such as respiratory issues, chronic pain, and reduced quality of life. Treatment options vary based on the severity and underlying cause of the scoliosis and may include physical therapy, bracing, or surgical interventions such as spinal fusion. Accurate diagnosis and coding are essential for appropriate management and reimbursement.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of underlying causes (idiopathic, congenital, neuromuscular)
  • Differentiation from other spinal deformities (kyphosis, lordosis)
  • Variability in clinical presentation and severity
  • Potential for multiple co-existing spinal conditions

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of curvature measurements
  • Failure to specify the type of scoliosis
  • Lack of supporting clinical evidence for the diagnosis
  • Incorrect linkage of diagnosis to treatment procedures

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with progressive scoliosis requiring surgical intervention or bracing.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate measurement of spinal curvature and documentation of any associated conditions.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessment of functional limitations and treatment goals.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing rehabilitation for scoliosis-related pain or functional impairment.

Billing Considerations

Document the impact of scoliosis on daily activities and response to therapy.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M41.85 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the diagnosis is supported by clinical documentation
  • Include specific details about the type of scoliosis and any associated conditions
  • Use additional codes as necessary to capture co
  • existing conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M41.85 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

22612CPT Code

Spinal fusion, posterior technique

Clinical Scenario

Used for surgical correction of scoliosis in patients with significant curvature.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure, indications, and pre-operative imaging.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the specific type of scoliosis and any associated conditions.

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 data collection and reimbursement processes. M41.85 provides a distinct code for other forms of scoliosis, enhancing clarity in clinical documentation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of scoliosis types, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. M41.85 provides a distinct code for other forms of scoliosis, enhancing clarity in clinical documentation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. M41.85 provides a distinct code for other forms of scoliosis, enhancing clarity in clinical documentation.

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 M41.85 and M41.1?

M41.85 is used for other forms of scoliosis, while M41.1 specifically refers to idiopathic scoliosis, which has no known cause.