ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM47.029

M47.029

Billable

Vertebral artery compression syndromes, site unspecified

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M47.029 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of vertebral artery compression syndromes, site unspecified.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Vertebral artery compression syndromes refer to a group of conditions characterized by the compression of the vertebral artery, which can lead to a range of neurological symptoms due to reduced blood flow to the brain. This syndrome is often associated with various spondylopathies, including ankylosing spondylitis, spinal stenosis, and other inflammatory spine conditions. In ankylosing spondylitis, the inflammation of the spine can lead to bony fusion and abnormal posture, which may contribute to vertebral artery compression. Spinal stenosis, characterized by narrowing of the spinal canal, can also lead to compression of the vertebral artery as the surrounding structures encroach upon the artery. Symptoms may include dizziness, vertigo, and even transient ischemic attacks, depending on the severity of the compression. Accurate diagnosis often requires imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans to visualize the anatomical structures and assess for any compressive lesions. Treatment may involve physical therapy, pain management, and in some cases, surgical intervention to relieve the compression.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in clinical presentation and symptoms
  • Need for precise anatomical localization in imaging studies
  • Differentiation from other vascular and neurological conditions
  • Potential overlap with other spondylopathies and inflammatory conditions

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of symptoms and clinical findings
  • Failure to specify the underlying condition contributing to compression
  • Misuse of unspecified codes leading to potential denials
  • Inconsistent coding of related diagnoses

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed neurological examination findings, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

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

Billing Considerations

Ensure thorough documentation of neurological deficits and imaging studies to support the diagnosis.

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Clinical notes on spinal alignment, range of motion, and any surgical interventions.

Common Clinical Scenarios

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

Billing Considerations

Document any surgical history or interventions that may contribute to vertebral artery compression.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M47.029 When
  • Follow official coding guidelines for spondylopathies and vertebral artery conditions
  • Ensure that the documentation supports the diagnosis and that any underlying conditions are clearly noted

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M47.029 When
  • Exclude conditions that are not related to vertebral artery compression

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

63030CPT Code

Laminectomy, cervical, for decompression of spinal cord

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases where surgical intervention is required for vertebral artery compression.

Documentation Requirements

Operative reports detailing the procedure and indications for surgery.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic or neurosurgical documentation must clearly outline the need for decompression.

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

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.

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, neck pain, and transient ischemic attacks. Patients may also experience visual disturbances or neurological deficits depending on the severity of compression.