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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM47.812

M47.812

Billable

Spondylosis without myelopathy or radiculopathy, cervical region

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M47.812 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of spondylosis without myelopathy or radiculopathy, cervical region.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Spondylosis refers to the degenerative changes in the spine, particularly affecting the intervertebral discs and the vertebrae. In the cervical region, this condition is characterized by the wear and tear of the cervical spine, leading to the formation of bone spurs and disc degeneration. Patients may experience neck pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. Unlike spondylitis, which involves inflammation, spondylosis is primarily a degenerative process. It is crucial to differentiate this condition from myelopathy and radiculopathy, which involve neurological symptoms due to spinal cord or nerve root compression. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI to assess the extent of degeneration and rule out other conditions. Treatment may include physical therapy, pain management, and lifestyle modifications, but surgical intervention is rarely required unless significant neurological symptoms develop.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between spondylosis, spondylitis, and other spinal conditions.
  • Understanding the absence of myelopathy or radiculopathy.
  • Interpreting imaging results accurately.
  • Documenting the clinical presentation and treatment plan thoroughly.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of symptoms and clinical findings.
  • Misclassification of spondylosis as spondylitis.
  • Failure to specify the cervical region.
  • Inconsistent use of imaging results in documentation.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes on physical examination findings, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with chronic neck pain and stiffness, often after a history of trauma or repetitive strain.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that the absence of neurological symptoms is clearly documented to support the use of M47.812.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessments including functional limitations and response to therapy.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing rehabilitation for neck pain due to spondylosis.

Billing Considerations

Documenting the impact of spondylosis on daily activities and rehabilitation goals.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M47.812 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, M47
  • 812 should be used when spondylosis is confirmed without neurological involvement
  • It is essential to document the clinical findings that support this diagnosis and to ensure that the cervical region is specified

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M47.812 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

72040CPT Code

X-ray cervical spine, 2 or 3 views

Clinical Scenario

Used to evaluate cervical spondylosis.

Documentation Requirements

Document the reason for imaging and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic specialists often order these imaging studies.

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 accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. M47.812 provides a clear distinction from other spinal conditions, aiding in better patient management.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of spondylosis, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. M47.812 provides a clear distinction from other spinal conditions, aiding in better patient management.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. M47.812 provides a clear distinction from other spinal conditions, aiding in better patient 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 is the difference between spondylosis and spondylitis?

Spondylosis is a degenerative condition characterized by wear and tear of the spine, while spondylitis is an inflammatory condition that can lead to spinal fusion.