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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM47.015

M47.015

Billable

Anterior spinal artery compression syndromes, thoracolumbar region

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M47.015 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of anterior spinal artery compression syndromes, thoracolumbar region.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Anterior spinal artery compression syndromes in the thoracolumbar region refer to a group of conditions 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 bony fusion and narrowing of the spinal canal, increasing the risk of anterior spinal artery compression. Spinal stenosis, which involves the narrowing of the spinal canal, can also contribute to this syndrome by compressing the spinal cord and its vascular supply. Inflammatory spine conditions may exacerbate these issues, leading to significant neurological deficits. Symptoms may include motor weakness, sensory loss, and bowel or bladder dysfunction, depending on the level of compression. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans to visualize the extent of compression and assess the underlying causes. Treatment may involve surgical intervention to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and restore blood flow.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between various types of spondylopathies
  • Understanding the relationship between inflammatory conditions and vascular compression
  • Accurate documentation of neurological deficits
  • Interpreting imaging results for coding purposes

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of neurological symptoms
  • Failure to specify the underlying cause of compression
  • Incorrect coding of associated conditions
  • Lack of imaging documentation 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 spinal stenosis or decompression due to anterior spinal artery compression.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all relevant imaging studies are included in the documentation to support the diagnosis.

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive neurological assessments, including motor and sensory evaluations.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Evaluation of patients with neurological deficits due to anterior spinal artery compression.

Billing Considerations

Document all neurological findings meticulously to support the diagnosis and coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M47.015 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, ensuring that the diagnosis is supported by clinical documentation and imaging studies
  • Include any relevant co
  • morbidities and specify the anatomical location of the compression

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M47.015 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

63030CPT Code

Laminectomy, facetectomy, and foraminotomy

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases of anterior spinal artery compression due to spinal stenosis.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and indication for surgery.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons should ensure that all relevant imaging and clinical findings are documented.

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 plans.

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 plans.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

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 plans.

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 motor weakness, sensory loss, and bowel or bladder dysfunction, depending on the level of compression.

How is anterior spinal artery compression diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans to visualize the extent of compression and assess underlying causes.