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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM43.06

M43.06

Billable

Spondylolysis, lumbar region

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M43.06 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of spondylolysis, lumbar region.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Spondylolysis is a defect or fracture in the pars interarticularis of the lumbar vertebrae, often resulting from repetitive stress or trauma. This condition is most commonly seen in adolescents and young adults, particularly those involved in sports that require hyperextension of the spine, such as gymnastics or football. Clinically, patients may present with lower back pain that can radiate to the buttocks or thighs, often exacerbated by activity and relieved by rest. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies, such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans, which can reveal the defect in the pars interarticularis. Treatment options vary based on the severity of the condition and may include conservative management with physical therapy and pain relief, or surgical intervention in cases of significant instability or persistent pain. Understanding the implications of spondylolysis is crucial, as it can lead to further spinal deformities, including scoliosis, kyphosis, or lordosis, if not properly managed.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in presentation and symptoms among patients
  • Need for precise imaging documentation
  • Differentiation from other spinal conditions like spondylolisthesis
  • Potential for co-existing spinal deformities

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of imaging results
  • Failure to document conservative treatment attempts
  • Misclassification of spondylolysis as spondylolisthesis
  • Lack of clarity on the patient's activity level and its impact on the condition

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed imaging reports, treatment plans, and follow-up notes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with lower back pain, athletes with repetitive stress injuries, and cases requiring surgical intervention.

Billing Considerations

Documentation must clearly differentiate between spondylolysis and other spinal conditions to avoid coding errors.

Physical Therapy

Documentation Requirements

Progress notes detailing treatment modalities, patient response, and functional outcomes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Rehabilitation of patients post-surgery or those undergoing conservative management.

Billing Considerations

Therapists should document specific exercises and their impact on pain and function.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M43.06 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, M43
  • 06 should be used when spondylolysis is specifically diagnosed in the lumbar region
  • Coders must ensure that the diagnosis is supported by imaging and clinical findings

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M43.06 When
  • Exclusion criteria include conditions that do not involve a defect in the pars interarticularis

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

22630CPT Code

Lumbar spinal fusion

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases of symptomatic spondylolysis requiring surgical intervention.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure, indications, and post-operative care.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must provide comprehensive documentation to support the necessity of surgery.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of spondylolysis, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. This specificity aids in better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of spondylolysis, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. This specificity aids in better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. This specificity aids in better tracking of treatment outcomes 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 is the primary cause of spondylolysis?

Spondylolysis is primarily caused by repetitive stress or trauma to the lumbar spine, often seen in athletes involved in sports that require hyperextension.

How is spondylolysis diagnosed?

Diagnosis is typically made through imaging studies such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans that reveal a defect in the pars interarticularis.