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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM47.13

M47.13

Billable

Other spondylosis with myelopathy, cervicothoracic region

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M47.13 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other spondylosis with myelopathy, cervicothoracic region.

Key Diagnostic Point:

M47.13 refers to a specific type of spondylosis characterized by degenerative changes in the cervical and thoracic spine that lead to myelopathy, which is a neurological deficit due to spinal cord compression. This condition often arises from age-related degeneration of the intervertebral discs and vertebrae, leading to spinal instability, osteophyte formation, and potential narrowing of the spinal canal (spinal stenosis). Patients may present with symptoms such as neck pain, weakness, numbness, and coordination difficulties, which can significantly impact their quality of life. The cervicothoracic region is particularly vulnerable due to its mobility and the complex interplay of nerves and blood vessels. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans to assess the extent of degeneration and any resultant spinal cord compression. Treatment options may include conservative management with physical therapy and medications, or surgical interventions in more severe cases. Accurate coding is essential for appropriate reimbursement and to reflect the complexity of the patient's condition.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between various types of spondylosis and myelopathy.
  • Need for precise documentation of neurological deficits.
  • Variability in presentation and severity among patients.
  • Potential overlap with other spinal conditions such as ankylosing spondylitis.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of neurological symptoms.
  • Failure to provide imaging results that support the diagnosis.
  • Misclassification of spondylosis types.
  • Inconsistent use of terminology in clinical notes.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with neck pain and neurological deficits, requiring differential diagnosis.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of myelopathy symptoms and their impact on daily activities.

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Surgical notes, pre-operative assessments, and post-operative follow-ups.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing surgical intervention for decompression of the spinal cord.

Billing Considerations

Document the rationale for surgical intervention and any pre-existing conditions.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M47.13 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the condition's severity and associated symptoms
  • Include any relevant imaging studies and clinical findings that support the diagnosis

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M47.13 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 required for myelopathy due to spondylosis.

Documentation Requirements

Pre-operative assessments, imaging studies, and surgical notes.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the rationale for surgery and expected outcomes.

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 M47.13, improving the granularity of data for research and treatment outcomes. It has also increased the need for precise documentation to support the complexity of the diagnosis.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like M47.13, improving the granularity of data for research and treatment outcomes. It has also increased the need for precise documentation to support the complexity of the diagnosis.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like M47.13, improving the granularity of data for research and treatment outcomes. It has also increased the need for precise documentation to support the complexity of the diagnosis.

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 is the difference between M47.13 and M47.12?

M47.13 includes myelopathy, indicating neurological deficits due to spinal cord compression, while M47.12 does not.