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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM47.1

M47.1

Billable

Other spondylosis with myelopathy

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M47.1 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other spondylosis with myelopathy.

Key Diagnostic Point:

M47.1 refers to a specific type of spondylosis characterized by degeneration of the spine that leads to myelopathy, which is a neurological condition caused by compression of the spinal cord. This condition can arise from various forms of spondylosis, including degenerative changes in the intervertebral discs and facet joints, leading to spinal instability and narrowing of the spinal canal (spinal stenosis). Myelopathy manifests as symptoms such as weakness, numbness, and coordination difficulties, often affecting the upper and lower extremities. The condition can be exacerbated by inflammatory spine conditions, such as ankylosing spondylitis, which can lead to further degeneration and complications. Accurate diagnosis typically involves imaging studies like MRI or CT scans to assess the degree of spinal canal narrowing and the presence of any compressive lesions. Treatment may include physical therapy, pain management, and in some cases, surgical intervention to relieve pressure on the spinal cord.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between types of spondylosis and their associated symptoms.
  • Understanding the relationship between spondylosis and myelopathy.
  • Identifying the specific anatomical location of the spondylosis.
  • Documenting the severity and impact of myelopathy on patient function.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of neurological symptoms.
  • Failure to specify the location of spondylosis.
  • Misidentification of myelopathy as a separate condition.
  • Lack of imaging studies to support the diagnosis.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed neurological examination findings, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with weakness, sensory changes, or gait disturbances due to spinal cord compression.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that neurological deficits are clearly documented and correlated with imaging findings.

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Surgical notes, pre-operative assessments, and post-operative follow-ups.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients requiring surgical intervention for decompression of the spinal cord.

Billing Considerations

Document the rationale for surgical intervention and any pre-existing conditions that may affect recovery.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M47.1 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, M47
  • 1 should be used when there is clear documentation of spondylosis with associated myelopathy
  • It is important to ensure that the myelopathy is directly linked to the spondylosis and that other potential causes are ruled out

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M47.1 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

63030CPT Code

Laminectomy, decompression of spinal cord

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical intervention is required for myelopathy.

Documentation Requirements

Pre-operative imaging and neurological assessment.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the rationale for surgery.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of spondylosis and myelopathy, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. M47.1 provides a clear distinction for cases involving myelopathy, which was less defined in ICD-9.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of spondylosis and myelopathy, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. M47.1 provides a clear distinction for cases involving myelopathy, which was less defined in ICD-9.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of spondylosis and myelopathy, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. M47.1 provides a clear distinction for cases involving myelopathy, which was less defined in ICD-9.

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 difference between M47.1 and M47.0?

M47.1 includes myelopathy as a complication of spondylosis, while M47.0 refers to cervical spondylosis without myelopathy.