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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM47.022

M47.022

Billable

Vertebral artery compression syndromes, cervical region

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M47.022 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of vertebral artery compression syndromes, cervical region.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Vertebral artery compression syndromes in the cervical region occur when the vertebral arteries, which supply blood to the brain, become compressed due to various spinal conditions. This compression can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, vertigo, and even transient ischemic attacks. Common causes include spondylopathies, particularly those associated with ankylosing spondylitis, where inflammation and subsequent fusion of the vertebrae can narrow the spinal canal. Spinal stenosis, characterized by the narrowing of the spinal canal, can also contribute to vertebral artery compression. Inflammatory spine conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, can exacerbate these issues by causing swelling and structural changes in the cervical spine. Accurate diagnosis often requires imaging studies, such as MRI or CT scans, to visualize the extent of compression and its impact on surrounding structures. Treatment may involve physical therapy, medications, or surgical interventions to relieve pressure on the arteries and restore normal blood flow.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between various causes of cervical spine compression
  • Understanding the relationship between spondylopathies and vertebral artery compression
  • Need for precise documentation of symptoms and imaging findings
  • Potential overlap with other cervical spine codes

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of symptoms related to vertebral artery compression
  • Failure to include imaging results in the medical record
  • Misclassification of the primary diagnosis
  • Lack of clarity in the relationship between symptoms and the underlying condition

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed neurological examination findings, imaging results, and symptom descriptions.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with dizziness, vertigo, or transient ischemic attacks.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all neurological symptoms are documented and linked to the diagnosis.

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessment of spinal alignment, mobility, and imaging studies.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with chronic neck pain and signs of spinal stenosis or ankylosing spondylitis.

Billing Considerations

Document the extent of spinal involvement and any surgical interventions performed.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M47.022 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, M47
  • 022 should be used when vertebral artery compression is specifically identified in the cervical region
  • Coders must ensure that the documentation supports the diagnosis and that any related conditions are also coded appropriately

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M47.022 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

63075CPT Code

Laminectomy, cervical, for decompression of spinal cord

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical intervention is required for severe vertebral artery compression.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and indication for surgery.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the extent of decompression and any associated findings.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of vertebral 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 vertebral 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 vertebral artery compression syndromes?

Common symptoms include dizziness, vertigo, visual disturbances, and neurological deficits such as weakness or numbness in the limbs.

How is vertebral artery compression diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans, and assessment of symptoms.

What treatments are available for vertebral artery compression?

Treatment options may include physical therapy, medications for pain management, and surgical interventions to relieve compression.