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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesG95.20

G95.20

Billable

Unspecified cord compression

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/05/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 G95.20 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of unspecified cord compression.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Unspecified cord compression refers to a condition where the spinal cord is compressed, leading to a variety of neurological symptoms. This compression can occur due to various factors, including tumors, herniated discs, trauma, or degenerative diseases. Patients may present with a range of symptoms, including pain syndromes, which can manifest as localized or radiating pain, weakness, sensory deficits, and autonomic dysfunction. Autonomic disorders may include changes in bowel and bladder control, sexual dysfunction, and temperature regulation issues. Hydrocephalus, characterized by an accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid, can also be a consequence of cord compression, leading to increased intracranial pressure and further neurological impairment. The clinical presentation can vary significantly based on the level and severity of the compression, making diagnosis and management complex. Accurate coding is essential for appropriate treatment planning and reimbursement.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of potential underlying causes (e.g., tumors, trauma, degenerative diseases)
  • Wide range of symptoms that can overlap with other conditions
  • Need for comprehensive documentation to support the diagnosis
  • Potential for co-morbid conditions that complicate the clinical picture

Audit Risk Factors

  • Insufficient documentation of the underlying cause of compression
  • Failure to document the severity and impact of symptoms
  • Inconsistent coding of co-morbid conditions
  • Lack of clarity in the clinical rationale for the diagnosis

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed neurological examination findings, imaging results, and symptom descriptions.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with unexplained neurological deficits, chronic pain syndromes, or autonomic dysfunction.

Billing Considerations

Neurologists should ensure that all relevant diagnostic tests are documented to support the diagnosis of unspecified cord compression.

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with spinal injuries or degenerative spine conditions leading to cord compression.

Billing Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the specific anatomical details and surgical interventions performed to justify the use of this code.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use G95.20 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, G95
  • 20 should be used when the specific cause of cord compression is not documented
  • Coders should ensure that all relevant clinical information is captured to support the diagnosis

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use G95.20 When
  • Exclusion criteria include conditions that are specifically coded elsewhere

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

63030CPT Code

Laminectomy, facetectomy, and foraminotomy

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases where surgical intervention is required for decompression.

Documentation Requirements

Operative reports detailing the procedure and indication for surgery.

Specialty Considerations

Neurosurgeons should ensure that the diagnosis of cord compression is well-documented to support the surgical procedure.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more detailed coding of spinal cord conditions, but the unspecified nature of G95.20 can lead to challenges in documentation and justification for reimbursement.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more detailed coding of spinal cord conditions, but the unspecified nature of G95.20 can lead to challenges in documentation and justification for reimbursement.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement.

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

When should G95.20 be used?

G95.20 should be used when there is evidence of spinal cord compression but the specific cause or location is not documented. It is important to ensure that all relevant clinical information is captured to support this diagnosis.