Anterior spinal and vertebral artery compression syndromes
ICD-10 M47.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of anterior spinal and vertebral artery compression syndromes.
Anterior spinal and vertebral artery compression syndromes refer to a group of conditions characterized by the compression of the anterior spinal artery and/or the vertebral arteries, often resulting from various spondylopathies, including ankylosing spondylitis and spinal stenosis. These syndromes can lead to significant neurological deficits due to compromised blood flow to the spinal cord and surrounding structures. The anterior spinal artery supplies blood to the anterior two-thirds of the spinal cord, and its compression can result in symptoms such as weakness, sensory loss, and bowel or bladder dysfunction. Conditions like ankylosing spondylitis, which is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting the spine and pelvis, can lead to vertebral fusion and subsequent spinal stenosis, exacerbating the risk of arterial compression. Inflammatory spine conditions may also contribute to the development of these syndromes, necessitating careful evaluation and management to prevent long-term complications. Accurate diagnosis often requires imaging studies, such as MRI or CT scans, to visualize the extent of compression and guide treatment options.
Detailed neurological examination findings, imaging results, and treatment plans.
Patients presenting with weakness, sensory changes, or bowel/bladder dysfunction due to spinal compression.
Ensure that all neurological symptoms are documented and correlate with imaging findings.
Surgical notes, pre-operative assessments, and post-operative follow-ups.
Patients undergoing surgical intervention for spinal stenosis or vertebral compression.
Document the specific surgical procedure and any complications related to arterial compression.
Used in cases of significant spinal stenosis causing anterior spinal artery compression.
Document the indication for surgery, pre-operative imaging, and post-operative outcomes.
Orthopedic surgeons should ensure that all surgical findings are clearly documented.
Common symptoms include weakness, sensory loss, bowel or bladder dysfunction, and pain in the back or neck, depending on the level of compression.
Diagnosis typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans, and assessment of neurological function.
Treatment may include conservative management such as physical therapy, pain management, or surgical interventions like laminectomy or spinal fusion, depending on the severity of the compression.
