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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM47.811

M47.811

Billable

Spondylosis without myelopathy or radiculopathy, occipito-atlanto-axial region

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M47.811 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of spondylosis without myelopathy or radiculopathy, occipito-atlanto-axial region.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Spondylosis refers to degenerative changes in the spine, particularly in the intervertebral discs and vertebrae, leading to pain and stiffness. The occipito-atlanto-axial region encompasses the upper cervical spine, including the occipital bone, atlas (C1), and axis (C2). This condition is characterized by the presence of osteophytes, disc degeneration, and facet joint changes without associated neurological deficits such as myelopathy or radiculopathy. Patients may present with neck pain, limited range of motion, and occasional headaches. It is important to differentiate this condition from more severe spinal disorders, such as ankylosing spondylitis, which involves inflammatory processes and can lead to significant disability. Diagnosis typically involves clinical evaluation, imaging studies like X-rays or MRI, and exclusion of other conditions. Treatment may include physical therapy, pain management, and lifestyle modifications, focusing on maintaining mobility and reducing discomfort.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiation from other spondylopathies
  • Need for precise documentation of symptoms
  • Exclusion of myelopathy and radiculopathy
  • Variability in clinical presentation

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of symptoms
  • Failure to specify the absence of myelopathy or radiculopathy
  • Misinterpretation of imaging results
  • Inconsistent clinical findings

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 neck pain, stiffness, and limited mobility.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of neurological assessments to rule out myelopathy or radiculopathy.

Rheumatology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive evaluation of inflammatory markers, patient history, and response to treatment.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with suspected inflammatory spine conditions needing differentiation from spondylosis.

Billing Considerations

Document any inflammatory symptoms and family history of autoimmune diseases.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M47.811 When
  • Follow the ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding spondylopathies, ensuring that the absence of myelopathy or radiculopathy is clearly documented
  • Use additional codes for any associated conditions or symptoms

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M47.811 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

72040CPT Code

X-ray cervical spine

Clinical Scenario

Used to evaluate degenerative changes in the cervical spine.

Documentation Requirements

Document the reason for the X-ray and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic specialists often order these for initial evaluations.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of spondylosis, improving the ability to capture the nuances of the condition and its impact on patient care.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of spondylosis, improving the ability to capture the nuances of the condition and its impact on patient care.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of spondylosis, improving the ability to capture the nuances of the condition and its impact on patient care.

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 spondylosis and ankylosing spondylitis?

Spondylosis is a degenerative condition without inflammation, while ankylosing spondylitis is an inflammatory disease that can lead to fusion of the spine.