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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM48.25

M48.25

Billable

Kissing spine, thoracolumbar region

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M48.25 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of kissing spine, thoracolumbar region.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Kissing spine, also known as Baastrup's disease, is a condition characterized by the abnormal contact between adjacent spinous processes in the thoracolumbar region of the spine. This condition often arises due to degenerative changes in the spine, leading to the approximation of the spinous processes, which can result in pain and discomfort. Patients may experience localized pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility, particularly during activities that involve bending or twisting. The condition is often associated with other spinal pathologies, such as spondylopathies, ankylosing spondylitis, and spinal stenosis. Inflammatory conditions of the spine can exacerbate the symptoms of kissing spine, as inflammation can lead to further degeneration and instability. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough clinical evaluation, imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI, and a review of the patient's medical history. Treatment options may include physical therapy, pain management, and in some cases, surgical intervention to alleviate symptoms and restore spinal function.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between kissing spine and other spinal conditions.
  • Need for precise documentation of symptoms and imaging findings.
  • Potential overlap with other codes related to spondylopathies.
  • Variability in treatment approaches and their documentation.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of clinical findings.
  • Failure to specify the thoracolumbar region.
  • Misidentification of kissing spine as a primary diagnosis.
  • Lack of imaging studies to support the diagnosis.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with chronic back pain and imaging showing kissing spine.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that the relationship between kissing spine and other spinal conditions is clearly documented.

Rheumatology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive history of inflammatory symptoms and response to treatment.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with ankylosing spondylitis presenting with kissing spine.

Billing Considerations

Document any inflammatory markers and their correlation with spinal symptoms.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M48.25 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the diagnosis, including the specific region affected
  • Include any relevant comorbidities and the clinical rationale for the diagnosis

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M48.25 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

22551CPT Code

Spinal fusion, posterior technique

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases where surgical intervention is required for kissing spine.

Documentation Requirements

Document the need for surgery based on conservative treatment failure.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must provide detailed operative notes.

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 kissing spine, improving the accuracy of diagnosis 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 kissing spine, improving the accuracy of diagnosis and treatment tracking. This specificity aids in better patient management and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like kissing spine, improving the accuracy of diagnosis and treatment tracking. This specificity aids in better patient management 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 kissing spine?

Kissing spine is a condition where the spinous processes of adjacent vertebrae touch or rub against each other, often leading to pain and discomfort.

How is kissing spine diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves a clinical evaluation and imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI to confirm the proximity of the spinous processes.

What are the treatment options for kissing spine?

Treatment may include physical therapy, pain management, and in some cases, surgical intervention to alleviate symptoms.