ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM48.16

M48.16

Billable

Ankylosing hyperostosis [Forestier], lumbar region

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M48.16 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of ankylosing hyperostosis [forestier], lumbar region.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Ankylosing hyperostosis, also known as Forestier's disease, is a condition characterized by calcification and ossification of the anterior longitudinal ligament of the spine, leading to stiffness and reduced mobility. This condition primarily affects the lumbar region, where patients may experience significant pain and discomfort due to the rigidity of the spine. The pathophysiology involves chronic inflammation and subsequent ossification, which can lead to a 'bamboo spine' appearance on imaging. Patients often present with symptoms similar to ankylosing spondylitis, including back pain and stiffness, particularly in the morning or after periods of inactivity. Diagnosis is typically confirmed through imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI, which reveal characteristic changes in the spinal structures. Management may include physical therapy, pain management, and in some cases, surgical intervention to relieve symptoms or correct deformities. It is important to differentiate this condition from other spondylopathies and inflammatory spine conditions, as treatment approaches may vary significantly.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiation from ankylosing spondylitis and other spondylopathies
  • Need for precise documentation of symptoms and imaging findings
  • Potential overlap with spinal stenosis diagnoses
  • Variability in clinical presentation among patients

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of imaging results
  • Failure to specify the lumbar region affected
  • Misdiagnosis due to symptom overlap with other conditions
  • Lack of detailed patient history

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Rheumatology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes including symptom onset, duration, and response to treatment.

Common Clinical Scenarios

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

Billing Considerations

Ensure differentiation from other inflammatory conditions and document any imaging findings.

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Surgical notes and pre-operative assessments must clearly outline the diagnosis and rationale for intervention.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients requiring surgical intervention for severe spinal rigidity or pain.

Billing Considerations

Document any previous treatments and their outcomes to justify surgical necessity.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M48.16 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, M48
  • 16 should be used when there is clear documentation of ankylosing hyperostosis affecting the lumbar region
  • It is essential to include imaging results and clinical findings that support the diagnosis

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M48.16 When
  • Exclusion criteria include conditions that do not involve hyperostosis or are primarily inflammatory without ossification

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

22551CPT Code

Spinal fusion, lumbar

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases where surgical intervention is necessary due to severe symptoms.

Documentation Requirements

Pre-operative assessment and imaging results must be documented.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must ensure clear justification 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 conditions like ankylosing hyperostosis, improving the accuracy of patient records and treatment plans. This specificity aids in better tracking of disease prevalence and treatment outcomes.

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 treatment plans. This specificity aids in better tracking of disease prevalence and treatment outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement and to avoid claim denials.

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 primary symptoms of ankylosing hyperostosis?

The primary symptoms include chronic back pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility, particularly in the lumbar region.

How is ankylosing hyperostosis diagnosed?

Diagnosis is typically made through a combination of clinical evaluation, patient history, and imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI.

What treatment options are available for this condition?

Treatment may include physical therapy, pain management, and in some cases, surgical intervention to relieve symptoms.