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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesM48.36

M48.36

Billable

Traumatic spondylopathy, lumbar region

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

Code Description

ICD-10 M48.36 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of traumatic spondylopathy, lumbar region.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Traumatic spondylopathy of the lumbar region refers to a condition characterized by injury or damage to the lumbar vertebrae and surrounding structures due to trauma. This can result from various incidents such as falls, motor vehicle accidents, or sports injuries. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms including localized pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility in the lower back. The condition may also lead to secondary complications such as spinal stenosis, where the spinal canal narrows, potentially compressing the spinal cord or nerve roots. Inflammatory spine conditions, such as ankylosing spondylitis, may also be considered in differential diagnoses, as they can present with similar symptoms but have distinct underlying pathophysiological mechanisms. Accurate diagnosis often requires imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRIs, to assess the extent of vertebral damage and rule out other conditions. Treatment typically involves pain management, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgical intervention to stabilize the spine or relieve nerve compression.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between traumatic and non-traumatic spondylopathies
  • Need for precise documentation of the mechanism of injury
  • Potential overlap with other spinal conditions like ankylosing spondylitis
  • Variability in clinical presentation and severity

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the mechanism of injury
  • Failure to specify the exact lumbar vertebrae affected
  • Misclassification of traumatic versus degenerative conditions
  • Lack of imaging results in the medical record

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed notes on the mechanism of injury, physical examination findings, and imaging results.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with acute lower back pain following trauma, requiring surgical evaluation.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of any surgical interventions or referrals to physical therapy.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessment of functional limitations and rehabilitation goals.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing rehabilitation post-trauma to improve mobility and reduce pain.

Billing Considerations

Document progress notes meticulously to support ongoing treatment plans.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use M48.36 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, ensuring that the code is used only when the condition is confirmed through clinical evaluation and imaging

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use M48.36 When
  • Exclude conditions that do not meet the criteria for traumatic spondylopathy

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

22551CPT Code

Percutaneous vertebroplasty

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases of vertebral compression fractures due to trauma.

Documentation Requirements

Indicate the specific vertebrae treated and the reason for the procedure.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic specialists should document the necessity of the procedure based on imaging findings.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of traumatic spondylopathy, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. This specificity aids in better tracking of outcomes and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of traumatic spondylopathy, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. This specificity aids in better tracking of outcomes and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. This specificity aids in better tracking of outcomes 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 the primary cause of traumatic spondylopathy?

The primary cause of traumatic spondylopathy is external trauma to the lumbar spine, which can occur from falls, accidents, or sports injuries.

How is traumatic spondylopathy diagnosed?

Diagnosis is made through a combination of patient history, physical examination, and imaging studies such as X-rays or MRIs to assess for vertebral injury.

What are the treatment options for traumatic spondylopathy?

Treatment options may include conservative management with pain relief and physical therapy, or surgical intervention if there is significant structural damage or nerve compression.