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 CodesM48.19

M48.19

Billable

Ankylosing hyperostosis [Forestier], multiple sites in spine

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M48.19 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of ankylosing hyperostosis [forestier], multiple sites in spine.

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. 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 functional impairment and may be mistaken for ankylosing spondylitis, although the latter is primarily inflammatory in nature. Diagnosis is typically confirmed through imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRI, which reveal characteristic changes in the spine. Management focuses on pain relief and maintaining mobility, often involving physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medications. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to alleviate symptoms or address complications such as spinal stenosis.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiation from ankylosing spondylitis and other spondylopathies
  • Need for precise documentation of multiple sites affected
  • Potential for overlapping symptoms with other spinal conditions
  • Variability in presentation and severity among patients

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of clinical findings
  • Failure to specify multiple sites affected
  • Misdiagnosis as ankylosing spondylitis
  • Lack of imaging studies to support diagnosis

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Rheumatology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of symptoms, physical examination findings, and imaging results.

Common Clinical Scenarios

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

Billing Considerations

Differentiating between inflammatory and degenerative spinal conditions is crucial for accurate coding.

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients requiring surgical intervention for severe spinal stenosis due to hyperostosis.

Billing Considerations

Documentation must clearly outline the extent of spinal involvement and any surgical procedures performed.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M48.19 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the condition's severity and the specific sites affected
  • Include any relevant imaging studies and clinical findings to support the diagnosis

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M48.19 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

22551CPT Code

Spinal fusion, posterior technique

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases where severe spinal stenosis due to hyperostosis necessitates surgical intervention.

Documentation Requirements

Pre-operative assessments, imaging studies, and surgical notes detailing the procedure.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the extent of hyperostosis and any associated conditions.

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 M48.19, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. This specificity aids in better patient management and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like M48.19, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. This specificity aids in better patient management and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like M48.19, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. This specificity aids in better patient management 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 key symptoms of ankylosing hyperostosis?

Key symptoms include chronic back pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion, 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, which reveal characteristic changes in the spine.

What is the difference between ankylosing hyperostosis and ankylosing spondylitis?

Ankylosing hyperostosis is characterized by calcification of the anterior longitudinal ligament, while ankylosing spondylitis is primarily an inflammatory condition affecting the spine.