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 CodesM47.25

M47.25

Billable

Other spondylosis with radiculopathy, thoracolumbar region

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M47.25 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other spondylosis with radiculopathy, thoracolumbar region.

Key Diagnostic Point:

M47.25 refers to a specific type of spondylosis characterized by degenerative changes in the thoracolumbar spine that lead to radiculopathy. Spondylosis is a general term for age-related wear and tear of the spinal discs and vertebrae. In this case, the degeneration can cause nerve root compression, resulting in symptoms such as pain, numbness, or weakness that radiates along the path of the affected nerve. The thoracolumbar region encompasses the lower thoracic and upper lumbar spine, which is a common site for spondylotic changes due to mechanical stress and aging. Patients may present with a history of chronic back pain, exacerbated by certain movements or positions. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans to visualize the extent of degeneration and any associated stenosis or disc herniation. Treatment options may include physical therapy, pain management, and in some cases, surgical intervention to relieve nerve compression. Understanding the nuances of this condition is crucial for accurate coding and appropriate reimbursement.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between types of spondylosis and associated radiculopathy
  • Need for precise documentation of symptoms and imaging findings
  • Variability in clinical presentation among patients
  • Potential overlap with other spinal conditions such as spinal stenosis

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of radiculopathy symptoms
  • Failure to specify the affected nerve root
  • Misclassification of spondylosis type
  • Lack of imaging studies to support diagnosis

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes including physical exam findings, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with chronic back pain, sciatica, or neurological deficits.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of the relationship between spondylosis and radiculopathy.

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive neurological assessments and imaging interpretations.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with radicular pain and neurological symptoms related to spondylosis.

Billing Considerations

Documenting the specific nerve roots involved and correlating symptoms with imaging findings.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M47.25 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, M47
  • 25 should be used when there is clear documentation of spondylosis with radiculopathy specifically in the thoracolumbar region
  • It is important to ensure that the radiculopathy is directly linked to the spondylotic changes

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M47.25 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

63030CPT Code

Laminectomy, facetectomy, and foraminotomy

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases where surgical intervention is required for severe radiculopathy due to spondylosis.

Documentation Requirements

Operative reports detailing the procedure and indications for surgery.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the specific levels treated and the rationale for surgical intervention.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of spondylosis and associated conditions, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. M47.25 provides a clear distinction for cases involving radiculopathy, which aids in appropriate reimbursement and care management.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of spondylosis and associated conditions, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. M47.25 provides a clear distinction for cases involving radiculopathy, which aids in appropriate reimbursement and care management.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement and care management.

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 associated with M47.25?

Common symptoms include chronic back pain, radiating pain in the legs, numbness, and weakness, particularly in the lower extremities.

How is M47.25 diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves a combination of patient history, physical examination, and imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans to assess for degenerative changes and nerve root involvement.

What treatment options are available for M47.25?

Treatment may include conservative measures such as physical therapy and pain management, as well as surgical options like laminectomy or spinal fusion in severe cases.