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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM43.07

M43.07

Billable

Spondylolysis, lumbosacral region

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M43.07 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of spondylolysis, lumbosacral region.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Spondylolysis is a defect or fracture in the pars interarticularis of the vertebra, commonly occurring in the lumbosacral region. This condition can lead to instability of the spine and is often associated with low back pain, particularly in adolescents and young adults who participate in sports that involve repetitive hyperextension of the spine. The lumbosacral region is particularly vulnerable due to the biomechanical stresses placed on it. Symptoms may include localized pain, muscle spasms, and in some cases, radicular pain if nerve roots are affected. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to visualize the defect. Treatment options may vary from conservative management, including physical therapy and pain management, to surgical interventions such as spinal fusion if conservative measures fail. Understanding the implications of spondylolysis is crucial for effective management and coding, as it can significantly impact a patient's quality of life and functional abilities.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in presentation and symptoms among patients
  • Need for precise imaging documentation
  • Differentiation from other spinal conditions like spondylolisthesis
  • Potential for co-morbid conditions affecting coding

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of imaging results
  • Failure to document conservative treatment attempts
  • Misclassification of spondylolysis as spondylolisthesis
  • Lack of detailed patient history regarding symptoms

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed surgical notes, imaging studies, and pre-operative assessments.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with chronic low back pain and imaging-confirmed spondylolysis.

Billing Considerations

Documentation must clearly outline the surgical approach and rationale for fusion if performed.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive evaluations, treatment plans, and progress notes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing rehabilitation post-surgery or those receiving conservative management.

Billing Considerations

Focus on functional outcomes and the impact of spondylolysis on daily activities.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M43.07 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, M43
  • 07 should be used when spondylolysis is specifically diagnosed in the lumbosacral region
  • Coders must ensure that the diagnosis is supported by appropriate imaging and clinical findings

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M43.07 When
  • Exclusion criteria include conditions that do not involve the pars interarticularis

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

22612CPT Code

Spinal fusion, posterior or posterolateral technique

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical intervention is required for spondylolysis.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and indications.

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 spondylolysis, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. This specificity aids in better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource utilization.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of spondylolysis, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. This specificity aids in better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource utilization.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. This specificity aids in better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource utilization.

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 primary cause of spondylolysis?

Spondylolysis is primarily caused by repetitive stress and microtrauma to the pars interarticularis, often seen in athletes involved in sports requiring hyperextension of the spine.