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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM47.23

M47.23

Billable

Other spondylosis with radiculopathy, cervicothoracic region

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M47.23 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other spondylosis with radiculopathy, cervicothoracic region.

Key Diagnostic Point:

M47.23 refers to a specific type of spondylosis characterized by degenerative changes in the cervical and thoracic spine, leading to radiculopathy. This condition arises from the degeneration of intervertebral discs and facet joints, which can result in nerve root compression. Patients may present with symptoms such as neck pain, radiating pain into the arms, numbness, and weakness in the upper extremities. The cervicothoracic region is particularly susceptible to these changes due to its anatomical and functional demands. Spondylosis can be exacerbated by factors such as age, repetitive strain, and underlying conditions like ankylosing spondylitis or spinal stenosis. Accurate diagnosis often involves imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans to assess the extent of degeneration and nerve involvement. Treatment options may include physical therapy, medications, and in some cases, surgical intervention to relieve nerve compression.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between types of spondylosis and associated radiculopathy
  • Need for precise documentation of symptoms and imaging findings
  • Potential overlap with other spinal conditions like ankylosing spondylitis
  • Variability in clinical presentation among patients

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of radiculopathy symptoms
  • Failure to specify the cervicothoracic region
  • Misclassification of the type of spondylosis
  • Lack of imaging studies to support the diagnosis

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes including physical examination findings, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with chronic neck pain and neurological symptoms.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all relevant imaging studies are documented to support the diagnosis.

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive neurological assessments and documentation of radiculopathy symptoms.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with radicular pain and sensory deficits in the upper extremities.

Billing Considerations

Document the neurological examination findings thoroughly to justify the diagnosis.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M47.23 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, M47
  • 23 should be used when there is clear documentation of spondylosis with radiculopathy specifically in the cervicothoracic region
  • It is important to ensure that the radiculopathy is directly linked to the spondylosis

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M47.23 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

63030CPT Code

Laminectomy, cervical, for decompression of spinal cord or nerve root

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases where surgical intervention is required for radiculopathy due to spondylosis.

Documentation Requirements

Operative reports must detail the findings and rationale for surgery.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic and neurosurgical specialties should ensure clear documentation of the surgical necessity.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like M47.23, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. This specificity aids in better patient management and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like M47.23, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. This specificity aids in better patient management and resource allocation.

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

What is the difference between M47.23 and M47.21?

M47.23 is used for other types of spondylosis with radiculopathy in the cervicothoracic region, while M47.21 specifically refers to cervical spondylosis with radiculopathy.