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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM47.27

M47.27

Billable

Other spondylosis with radiculopathy, lumbosacral region

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M47.27 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other spondylosis with radiculopathy, lumbosacral region.

Key Diagnostic Point:

M47.27 refers to a specific type of spondylosis characterized by degenerative changes in the lumbar spine that lead to radiculopathy, which is the compression or irritation of spinal nerves. This condition often arises from age-related wear and tear on the spinal discs and vertebrae, resulting in pain, numbness, or weakness that radiates down the legs. The lumbosacral region is particularly susceptible due to its role in bearing weight and facilitating movement. Patients may present with symptoms such as lower back pain, sciatica, and neurological deficits. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies like MRI or CT scans to assess the extent of degeneration and nerve involvement. Treatment options may include physical therapy, medications, and in some cases, surgical intervention to relieve nerve compression. Understanding the nuances of this condition is crucial for accurate coding and appropriate management.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between types of spondylosis and associated radiculopathy.
  • Need for precise documentation of neurological symptoms.
  • Variability in presentation and severity among patients.
  • Potential overlap with other spinal conditions like spinal stenosis.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of radiculopathy symptoms.
  • Failure to include imaging results in the medical record.
  • Misclassification of spondylosis type.
  • Lack of clear treatment plans in the documentation.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of symptoms, physical examination findings, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with chronic lower back pain and neurological symptoms.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of the relationship between spondylosis and radiculopathy.

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Neurological examination findings, imaging studies, and response to treatment.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with radicular pain and sensory/motor deficits.

Billing Considerations

Documenting the neurological impact of spondylosis is crucial for accurate coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M47.27 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, M47
  • 27 should be used when there is clear documentation of spondylosis with radiculopathy specifically in the lumbosacral region
  • It is important to ensure that the radiculopathy is directly linked to the spondylosis

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M47.27 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

63030CPT Code

Laminectomy, lumbar

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical intervention is required for decompression of nerve roots due to spondylosis.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and indication.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic or neurosurgical documentation must clearly link the procedure to the diagnosis.

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 related conditions, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. M47.27 provides a clear distinction for cases involving radiculopathy, which 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 spondylosis and related conditions, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. M47.27 provides a clear distinction for cases involving radiculopathy, which aids in better patient management and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of spondylosis and related conditions, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. M47.27 provides a clear distinction for cases involving radiculopathy, which 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 is the difference between M47.27 and M54.16?

M47.27 specifically refers to spondylosis with radiculopathy in the lumbosacral region, while M54.16 refers to radiculopathy in the lumbar region without specifying spondylosis.