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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesQ05.3

Q05.3

Billable

Sacral spina bifida with hydrocephalus

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/11/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 Q05.3 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of sacral spina bifida with hydrocephalus.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Sacral spina bifida with hydrocephalus is a congenital malformation characterized by the incomplete closure of the neural tube, specifically in the sacral region of the spine. This condition results in a defect where the spinal cord and surrounding structures are exposed, leading to potential neurological deficits. Hydrocephalus, which is the accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the ventricles of the brain, often accompanies this condition due to the disruption of normal CSF flow. The combination of sacral spina bifida and hydrocephalus can lead to a range of complications, including motor impairment, bladder and bowel dysfunction, and cognitive challenges. Early diagnosis through prenatal imaging and postnatal assessment is crucial for managing these conditions effectively. Treatment may involve surgical intervention to close the defect and manage hydrocephalus, often requiring the placement of a shunt. Ongoing multidisciplinary care is essential for optimizing developmental outcomes in affected children.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between types of spina bifida (e.g., sacral vs. lumbar)
  • Identifying associated conditions like hydrocephalus and their implications
  • Understanding the need for multidisciplinary documentation
  • Navigating coding guidelines for congenital malformations

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of associated conditions
  • Failure to capture all relevant diagnoses
  • Incorrect linkage of procedures to the diagnosis
  • Misinterpretation of the severity of the condition

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes on developmental milestones, neurological assessments, and interventions.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of a newborn with spina bifida and hydrocephalus, follow-up care for developmental delays.

Billing Considerations

Pediatric coders must ensure that all aspects of care, including surgical interventions and ongoing therapy, are documented.

Genetics

Documentation Requirements

Genetic testing results, family history, and risk assessment documentation.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Genetic counseling for families with a history of neural tube defects, evaluation of chromosomal abnormalities.

Billing Considerations

Genetic coders should focus on the implications of genetic factors in congenital malformations and ensure accurate coding of related syndromes.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use Q05.3 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines for congenital malformations, ensuring accurate documentation of associated conditions and interventions
  • Use additional codes as necessary to capture the full clinical picture

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use Q05.3 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

62270CPT Code

Shunt placement for hydrocephalus

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases where hydrocephalus is present and requires surgical intervention.

Documentation Requirements

Surgical notes detailing the procedure and indications for shunt placement.

Specialty Considerations

Neurosurgery documentation must clearly outline the rationale 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 congenital malformations, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes for conditions like sacral spina bifida with hydrocephalus.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital malformations, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes for conditions like sacral spina bifida with hydrocephalus.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes for conditions like sacral spina bifida with hydrocephalus.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    CDC - Spina Bifida

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    CDC - Spina Bifida

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of coding hydrocephalus with spina bifida?

Coding hydrocephalus alongside spina bifida is crucial as it reflects the complexity of the patient's condition and ensures appropriate management and reimbursement for the comprehensive care required.