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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesQ05.8

Q05.8

Billable

Sacral spina bifida without hydrocephalus

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

Code Description

ICD-10 Q05.8 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of sacral spina bifida without hydrocephalus.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Sacral spina bifida is a type of neural tube defect characterized by the incomplete closure of the bony encasement of the spinal cord in the sacral region. This condition occurs during embryonic development and can lead to various neurological deficits, depending on the severity and location of the defect. Unlike other forms of spina bifida, sacral spina bifida typically does not involve hydrocephalus, which is the accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain. Patients may present with symptoms such as weakness or paralysis of the lower limbs, bowel and bladder dysfunction, and orthopedic issues. Diagnosis is usually made through prenatal ultrasound or postnatal imaging studies. Management may involve surgical intervention to close the defect and multidisciplinary care to address associated complications. Early intervention is crucial for optimizing functional outcomes and quality of life for affected individuals.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in clinical presentation and severity of symptoms
  • Need for precise documentation of neurological deficits
  • Differentiation from other types of spina bifida and neural tube defects
  • Potential for associated conditions requiring additional coding

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of neurological assessments
  • Failure to capture associated conditions or complications
  • Misclassification of the type of spina bifida
  • Lack of clarity in the treatment plan and follow-up

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed neurological assessments, developmental milestones, and treatment plans must be documented to support the diagnosis.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Pediatric patients presenting with lower limb weakness, bowel and bladder issues, and orthopedic complications.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of the child's age and developmental stage is crucial for accurate coding and management.

Genetics

Documentation Requirements

Genetic counseling notes, family history, and any chromosomal analysis results should be included.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Cases where spina bifida is part of a syndrome or associated with chromosomal abnormalities.

Billing Considerations

Understanding the genetic basis of congenital malformations can aid in accurate coding and family counseling.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use Q05.8 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines for congenital malformations, ensuring accurate documentation of the condition's specifics, associated symptoms, and any interventions performed

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use Q05.8 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

64727CPT Code

Repair of spina bifida

Clinical Scenario

Used during surgical intervention for closure of the defect.

Documentation Requirements

Operative reports detailing the procedure and any complications.

Specialty Considerations

Pediatric surgeons should provide detailed documentation of the surgical approach and outcomes.

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.

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.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes for conditions like sacral spina bifida.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    CDC - Spina Bifida

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    CDC - Spina Bifida

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between sacral spina bifida and other types of spina bifida?

Sacral spina bifida specifically refers to defects located in the sacral region of the spine, which may present with different symptoms and complications compared to lumbar or thoracic spina bifida. It is important to document the specific type to ensure accurate coding and management.