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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM48.02

M48.02

Billable

Spinal stenosis, cervical region

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M48.02 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of spinal stenosis, cervical region.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Spinal stenosis in the cervical region refers to the narrowing of the spinal canal in the neck area, which can lead to compression of the spinal cord and nerve roots. This condition can result from various factors, including degenerative changes, trauma, or congenital abnormalities. Symptoms often include neck pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the arms or hands, as well as potential balance issues and coordination problems. The condition is commonly associated with spondylopathies, such as osteoarthritis and degenerative disc disease, which contribute to the narrowing of the spinal canal. Inflammatory spine conditions, including ankylosing spondylitis, can also lead to spinal stenosis due to inflammation and subsequent structural changes in the vertebrae. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies like MRI or CT scans to assess the degree of stenosis and its impact on surrounding neural structures. Treatment options may range from conservative management, such as physical therapy and medications, to surgical interventions aimed at decompressing the spinal canal.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in symptoms and severity of stenosis
  • Differentiation from other cervical spine conditions
  • Need for precise documentation of imaging findings
  • Potential for co-existing conditions affecting coding

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of neurological deficits
  • Failure to specify the level of stenosis
  • Misclassification of stenosis severity
  • Lack of imaging reports to support diagnosis

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed surgical notes, imaging results, and pre-operative assessments.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Surgical intervention for severe stenosis causing significant neurological deficits.

Billing Considerations

Ensure documentation reflects the surgical approach and any complications.

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive neurological evaluations and imaging studies.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of conservative treatment for symptomatic stenosis.

Billing Considerations

Document neurological assessments thoroughly to support diagnosis.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M48.02 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the condition's severity and any associated symptoms
  • Include imaging findings and specify the level of stenosis when applicable

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M48.02 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

63075CPT Code

Laminectomy, cervical

Clinical Scenario

Performed for decompression of cervical spinal stenosis.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and indication.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic or neurosurgical documentation must clearly indicate the need for surgery.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of spinal conditions, including cervical spinal stenosis. This specificity aids in better tracking of patient outcomes and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of spinal conditions, including cervical spinal stenosis. This specificity aids in better tracking of patient outcomes and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of spinal conditions, including cervical spinal stenosis. This specificity aids in better tracking of patient outcomes 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 are the common symptoms of cervical spinal stenosis?

Common symptoms include neck pain, numbness or tingling in the arms, weakness, and balance issues. Symptoms may vary based on the severity of the stenosis.