Other specified inflammatory spondylopathies, cervicothoracic region
ICD-10 M46.83 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other specified inflammatory spondylopathies, cervicothoracic region.
M46.83 refers to inflammatory spondylopathies that affect the cervicothoracic region, which includes the cervical and upper thoracic vertebrae. These conditions are characterized by inflammation of the spine, leading to pain, stiffness, and potential mobility issues. Inflammatory spondylopathies can be associated with autoimmune diseases, such as ankylosing spondylitis, which primarily affects the sacroiliac joints and can extend to the cervical spine. Symptoms may include chronic back pain, reduced range of motion, and neurological symptoms if spinal stenosis occurs due to inflammation. Diagnosis typically involves clinical evaluation, imaging studies, and laboratory tests to identify inflammatory markers. Treatment may include anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgical intervention to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. Accurate coding is essential for proper management and reimbursement, as these conditions can significantly impact a patient's quality of life.
Detailed patient history, physical examination findings, imaging results, and laboratory tests.
Patients presenting with chronic back pain, stiffness, and positive inflammatory markers.
Documentation must clearly indicate the inflammatory nature of the condition and any associated autoimmune disorders.
Surgical notes, imaging studies, and pre-operative assessments.
Patients requiring surgical intervention for spinal stenosis due to inflammatory changes.
Ensure that the surgical necessity is well-documented and linked to the inflammatory diagnosis.
Used to assess inflammation in the cervicothoracic region.
Indication for MRI must be documented, including symptoms and prior treatments.
Rheumatologists and orthopedic surgeons should ensure imaging correlates with clinical findings.
Common symptoms include chronic neck pain, stiffness, reduced range of motion, and potential neurological symptoms due to spinal involvement.
M46.83 is specifically for inflammatory spondylopathies in the cervicothoracic region, requiring documentation of inflammatory markers and clinical findings.
