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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM48.17

M48.17

Billable

Ankylosing hyperostosis [Forestier], lumbosacral region

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M48.17 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of ankylosing hyperostosis [forestier], lumbosacral region.

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 the lumbosacral region, where the lumbar spine meets the sacrum. Patients often present with chronic back pain and may experience a gradual loss of spinal flexibility. The condition is more prevalent in older adults and can be associated with other spondylopathies, including ankylosing spondylitis. The pathophysiology involves an inflammatory process that leads to abnormal bone formation, resulting in a rigid spine. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI, which reveal characteristic changes in the spinal structure. Management may include physical therapy, pain management, and in some cases, surgical intervention to relieve symptoms or address complications such as spinal stenosis.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating from other spondylopathies like ankylosing spondylitis.
  • Understanding the specific anatomical location (lumbosacral region).
  • Need for accurate imaging documentation.
  • Potential overlap with other inflammatory spine conditions.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of imaging findings.
  • Failure to specify the lumbosacral region.
  • Misclassification with other spondylopathies.
  • Lack of comprehensive patient history.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Rheumatology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed patient history, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

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

Billing Considerations

Differentiating from other inflammatory conditions and ensuring accurate imaging documentation.

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Surgical notes, imaging studies, and post-operative assessments.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients requiring surgical intervention for spinal stenosis or severe mobility issues.

Billing Considerations

Understanding the implications of hyperostosis on surgical outcomes.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M48.17 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the condition's specifics, including the lumbosacral region
  • Include any relevant imaging studies and treatment plans to support the diagnosis

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M48.17 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

72040CPT Code

X-ray of the spine, 2 or 3 views

Clinical Scenario

Used to evaluate the extent of hyperostosis in the lumbosacral region.

Documentation Requirements

Include specific views taken and findings related to hyperostosis.

Specialty Considerations

Rheumatology and orthopedics may require different imaging protocols.

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.

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.

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 treatment plans.

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 lumbosacral region.

How is ankylosing hyperostosis diagnosed?

Diagnosis is typically made through imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI, which reveal characteristic changes in the spine.

What treatments are available for this condition?

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