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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM43.28

M43.28

Billable

Fusion of spine, sacral and sacrococcygeal region

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M43.28 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of fusion of spine, sacral and sacrococcygeal region.

Key Diagnostic Point:

M43.28 refers to the surgical procedure involving the fusion of the sacral and sacrococcygeal regions of the spine. This procedure is often indicated for patients with severe spinal deformities such as scoliosis, kyphosis, or lordosis, where the structural integrity of the spine is compromised. Fusion aims to stabilize the spine, alleviate pain, and prevent further deformity progression. The procedure typically involves the use of bone grafts and instrumentation to promote bone healing and fusion. Patients may present with varying degrees of spinal deformity, which can lead to neurological deficits, chronic pain, and impaired mobility. The decision to perform a spinal fusion is based on a comprehensive evaluation, including imaging studies and clinical assessments, to determine the extent of the deformity and the potential benefits of surgical intervention. Post-operative care is crucial for recovery, and patients may require physical therapy to regain strength and mobility.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in surgical techniques and approaches
  • Need for precise documentation of the deformity type and severity
  • Potential for co-morbid conditions affecting the spine
  • Variations in post-operative care and follow-up requirements

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the surgical procedure performed
  • Failure to document pre-operative assessments and imaging results
  • Lack of clarity on the indication for fusion surgery
  • Inconsistent coding of associated conditions or complications

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative reports, imaging studies, and pre-operative evaluations are essential.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with progressive scoliosis or kyphosis requiring surgical intervention.

Billing Considerations

Documentation must clearly outline the rationale for fusion and any associated procedures.

Neurosurgery

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive neurological assessments and imaging results must be included.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with neurological deficits due to spinal deformities.

Billing Considerations

Focus on documenting neurological evaluations and post-operative outcomes.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M43.28 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the procedure, indication, and any associated conditions
  • Include relevant imaging and clinical assessments to support the coding

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M43.28 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

22612CPT Code

Spinal fusion, posterior or posterolateral technique

Clinical Scenario

Used in conjunction with M43.28 for surgical intervention.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the technique and approach used.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the specific levels fused.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of spinal conditions, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. M43.28 provides a clear designation for fusion procedures in the sacral region, enhancing clarity in clinical documentation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of spinal conditions, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. M43.28 provides a clear designation for fusion procedures in the sacral region, enhancing clarity in clinical documentation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. M43.28 provides a clear designation for fusion procedures in the sacral region, 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 conditions typically require M43.28?

M43.28 is typically used for patients with severe spinal deformities such as scoliosis, kyphosis, or lordosis that necessitate surgical intervention to stabilize the spine.