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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM47.012

M47.012

Billable

Anterior spinal artery compression syndromes, cervical region

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M47.012 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of anterior spinal artery compression syndromes, cervical region.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Anterior spinal artery compression syndromes in the cervical region are characterized by the compression of the anterior spinal artery, which can lead to ischemia of the anterior spinal cord. This condition is often associated with various spondylopathies, including ankylosing spondylitis and spinal stenosis. In ankylosing spondylitis, inflammation of the spine can lead to fusion of the vertebrae, resulting in a rigid spine that may predispose individuals to spinal stenosis. Spinal stenosis, a narrowing of the spinal canal, can occur due to degenerative changes, herniated discs, or congenital factors, leading to compression of the spinal cord and anterior spinal artery. Inflammatory spine conditions can exacerbate these issues, causing pain, neurological deficits, and impaired mobility. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans to visualize the extent of compression and assess the underlying causes. Treatment may include conservative management, such as physical therapy and medications, or surgical intervention to relieve compression and restore spinal stability.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between various types of spondylopathies
  • Understanding the relationship between spinal stenosis and anterior spinal artery compression
  • Identifying the specific cervical region affected
  • Documenting the severity and duration of symptoms

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of neurological deficits
  • Failure to specify the exact cervical level affected
  • Misclassification of the type of spondylopathy
  • Lack of imaging studies to support the diagnosis

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Surgical intervention for cervical stenosis or decompression due to anterior spinal artery compression.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of the surgical approach and any complications.

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive neurological evaluations, imaging studies, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of neurological symptoms related to anterior spinal artery compression.

Billing Considerations

Document the neurological examination findings thoroughly to support the diagnosis.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M47.012 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, M47
  • 012 should be used when there is clear documentation of anterior spinal artery compression in the cervical region
  • It is important to include details about the underlying cause, such as spondylopathy or stenosis, and to specify any neurological symptoms

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M47.012 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

63075CPT Code

Laminectomy, cervical, for decompression of spinal cord

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases where surgical intervention is necessary to relieve anterior spinal artery compression.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and indication for surgery.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the specific levels decompressed.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like anterior spinal artery compression syndromes, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. This specificity aids in better patient management and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like anterior spinal artery compression syndromes, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. This specificity aids in better patient management and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement.

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 are the common symptoms of anterior spinal artery compression syndromes?

Common symptoms include neck pain, weakness in the arms, sensory deficits, and in severe cases, bowel or bladder dysfunction due to spinal cord involvement.