ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesQ05.9

Q05.9

Billable

Spina bifida, unspecified

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/11/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 Q05.9 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of spina bifida, unspecified.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Spina bifida is a congenital malformation of the neural tube, which occurs when the spinal column does not close completely during fetal development. This condition can lead to varying degrees of disability, depending on the location and severity of the defect. In cases of spina bifida, the spinal cord and surrounding structures may be exposed, leading to potential complications such as paralysis, bladder and bowel dysfunction, and orthopedic issues. The unspecified designation indicates that the specific type of spina bifida (e.g., myelomeningocele, meningocele) has not been determined. Early diagnosis through prenatal imaging and postnatal assessment is crucial for management and intervention strategies. Treatment may involve surgical repair, physical therapy, and ongoing medical care to address associated complications. Understanding the implications of spina bifida is essential for healthcare providers, as it affects not only the physical health of the child but also their psychosocial development and quality of life.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in clinical presentation and severity of spina bifida.
  • Need for precise documentation to differentiate between types of spina bifida.
  • Potential for associated conditions that may complicate coding.
  • Variability in treatment approaches and follow-up care.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the specific type of spina bifida.
  • Failure to capture associated conditions or complications.
  • Misuse of unspecified codes leading to potential denials.
  • Lack of clarity in treatment plans and follow-up care.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes including developmental assessments, treatment plans, and follow-up evaluations.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of a newborn diagnosed with spina bifida, ongoing assessments of motor function, and coordination with rehabilitation services.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of the child's age, developmental milestones, and psychosocial factors in coding and treatment planning.

Genetics

Documentation Requirements

Genetic testing results, family history, and any chromosomal abnormalities associated with spina bifida.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Genetic counseling for families with a history of neural tube defects and discussions regarding recurrence risks.

Billing Considerations

Understanding the genetic factors that may contribute to spina bifida and the implications for family planning.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use Q05.9 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding congenital malformations, ensuring that all relevant clinical details are documented
  • Use additional codes to capture associated conditions or complications as necessary

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use Q05.9 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

62270CPT Code

Laminectomy, excision of herniated intervertebral disc

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases where surgical intervention is required for spina bifida.

Documentation Requirements

Operative reports detailing the procedure and indications.

Specialty Considerations

Pediatric surgical notes must clearly outline the necessity for intervention.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital malformations, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. Q05.9 provides a clear designation for unspecified cases, but it is essential to strive for specificity when possible.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital malformations, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. Q05.9 provides a clear designation for unspecified cases, but it is essential to strive for specificity when possible.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. Q05.9 provides a clear designation for unspecified cases, but it is essential to strive for specificity when possible.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    CDC - Spina Bifida

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    CDC - Spina Bifida

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of coding spina bifida as unspecified?

Coding spina bifida as unspecified (Q05.9) indicates that the specific type has not been determined. This can impact treatment planning and reimbursement, making it essential to gather as much clinical detail as possible to ensure accurate coding.