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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM48.10

M48.10

Billable

Ankylosing hyperostosis [Forestier], site unspecified

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M48.10 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of ankylosing hyperostosis [forestier], site unspecified.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Ankylosing hyperostosis, also known as Forestier's disease, is characterized by calcification and ossification of the anterior longitudinal ligament of the spine, leading to stiffness and reduced mobility. This condition primarily affects older adults and is often associated with other spondylopathies, including ankylosing spondylitis. Patients may present with back pain, stiffness, and a decreased range of motion, particularly in the thoracic and lumbar regions. The condition can lead to significant spinal deformities and may contribute to spinal stenosis, where the spinal canal narrows, potentially compressing the spinal cord and nerves. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI, which reveal characteristic changes in the spine. Management may include physical therapy, pain management, and in severe cases, surgical intervention. The unspecified site designation indicates that the condition may affect multiple areas of the spine without a specific localization.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between ankylosing hyperostosis and other spondylopathies.
  • Understanding the implications of unspecified site coding.
  • Navigating the overlap with ankylosing spondylitis and spinal stenosis.
  • Interpreting imaging findings accurately.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of clinical symptoms.
  • Failure to specify the site of involvement.
  • Misclassification with other spondylopathies.
  • Lack of imaging studies to support diagnosis.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Rheumatology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed patient history, physical examination findings, and imaging results.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with chronic back pain and stiffness, particularly in older adults.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of the relationship between symptoms and imaging findings.

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Surgical notes, pre-operative assessments, and post-operative follow-ups.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients requiring surgical intervention for spinal stenosis secondary to hyperostosis.

Billing Considerations

Document the extent of spinal involvement and any associated deformities.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M48.10 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the condition's clinical presentation
  • Include relevant imaging studies and symptomatology to support the diagnosis

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M48.10 When
  • Exclude conditions that do not meet the criteria for M48

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

22551CPT Code

Spinal fusion, posterior technique

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases of severe spinal stenosis due to hyperostosis.

Documentation Requirements

Pre-operative imaging, surgical notes, and post-operative assessments.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons should document the extent of spinal involvement.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like ankylosing hyperostosis, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better treatment planning.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like ankylosing hyperostosis, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better treatment planning.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like ankylosing hyperostosis, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better treatment planning.

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 primary symptom of ankylosing hyperostosis?

The primary symptom is chronic back pain and stiffness, particularly in the thoracic and lumbar regions.

How is ankylosing hyperostosis diagnosed?

Diagnosis is typically made through clinical evaluation and imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI that reveal characteristic changes in the spine.