Advanced Search

Pain Management Coding Alert

Reader Question:

Use 'Other' Classification for this Spondylopathy

Published on Thu Jun 07, 2018 Print Friendly and PDF PDF

Question: The PM specialist performs a level-two evaluation and management (E/M) service for an established patient with spondylopathy. They type of spondylopathy, however, isn't so clear. The notes state "post-long ligament ossified." Can you make any sense of that note?

Wisconsin Subscriber

Answer: While it would always be best to check with the performing PM specialist, this diagnosis will likely come from the M48.8X- (Other specified spondylopathies) code set.

Explanation: The ICD-10 entry for M48.8X- includes the description: "Ossification of posterior longitudinal ligament." Based on the provider's notes, this sounds like the right code set.

You'll still need more info, however, before choosing the correct ICD-10 code for your 99212 (Office or other outpatient visit for the evaluation and management of an established patient, which requires at least 2 of these 3 key components: A problem focused history; A problem focused examination; Straightforward medical decision making ...) encounter.

Do this: Check with the provider to see if you should be using the M48.8X- code set. Also, ask him about the anatomy of the spondylosis. Then, choose the best ICD-10 code from the following to append to 99212:

  • M48.8X1 - Other specified spondylopathies, occipito-atlanto-axial region
  • M48.8X2 - ... cervical region
  • M48.8X3 - ... cervicothoracic region
  • M48.8X4 - ... thoracic region
  • M48.8X5 - ... thoracolumbar region
  • M48.8X6 - ... lumbar region
  • M48.8X7 - ... lumbosacral region
  • M48.8X8 - ... sacral and sacrococcygeal region
  • M48.8X9 - ... site unspecified.

Other Articles in this issue of

Pain Management Coding Alert

View All