ICD Code M49.87

ICD code M4987 is used to identify a condition known as "Spondylopathy in diseases classified elsewhere, lumbosacral region." This code is part of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) system, which is used by healthcare providers to classify and code all diagnoses, symptoms, and procedures. Specifically, M4987 refers to a disorder affecting the spine (spondylopathy) that is associated with other diseases that are classified in different sections of the ICD. The term "lumbosacral region" indicates that the condition affects the lower part of the spine, where the lumbar spine meets the sacrum. This code helps healthcare providers accurately document and communicate the specific nature of spinal conditions related to other systemic diseases, facilitating effective treatment and billing processes.

When to use the ICD code M4987 for spondylopathy in diseases classified elsewhere, lumbosacral region:

1. Presence of Lumbosacral Pain
- Patient reports pain localized in the lower back region.

2. Radiating Symptoms
- Symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or weakness radiating down the legs.

3. History of Underlying Disease
- Documented history of a disease that may affect the spine, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or other systemic conditions.

4. Imaging Findings
- MRI or CT scans indicating degenerative changes or abnormalities in the lumbosacral region.

5. Neurological Deficits
- Evidence of neurological impairment, such as decreased reflexes or motor function in the lower extremities.

6. Functional Limitations
- Patient experiences difficulty with daily activities due to pain or mobility issues related to the lumbosacral region.

7. Response to Treatment
- Lack of improvement or worsening of symptoms despite conservative treatment measures.

8. Exclusion of Other Conditions
- Other potential causes of lumbosacral pain have been ruled out through diagnostic testing.

9. Chronicity of Symptoms
- Symptoms have persisted for an extended period, typically more than three months.

10. Patient's Reported Quality of Life Impact
- Patient indicates that their quality of life is significantly affected by the lumbosacral symptoms.

For the ICD code M4987, which pertains to spondylopathy in diseases classified elsewhere in the lumbosacral region, the relevant CPT codes that may be applicable for treatment include:

1. CPT 99201-99205: Evaluation and Management (E/M) services for new patients, which may be necessary for initial assessment and diagnosis.

2. CPT 99211-99215: E/M services for established patients, used for follow-up visits and ongoing management.

3. CPT 72080: Radiologic examination, spine, entire thoracic and lumbar, including skull, if performed; this may be used for diagnostic imaging.

4. CPT 72100: Radiologic examination, spine, lumbosacral; two or three views, for further imaging needs.

5. CPT 72148: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the lumbar spine without contrast, which can be used for detailed imaging.

6. CPT 20610: Arthrocentesis, aspiration, and/or injection into a major joint or bursa, which might be used for therapeutic injections.

7. CPT 22551: Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion, if surgical intervention is required.

8. CPT 63030: Laminotomy (hemilaminectomy), with decompression of nerve root(s), including partial facetectomy, foraminotomy, and/or excision of herniated intervertebral disc, if surgical decompression is necessary.

9. CPT 97110: Therapeutic exercises to develop strength and endurance, range of motion, and flexibility, often used in physical therapy.

10. CPT 97140: Manual therapy techniques, such as mobilization/manipulation, manual lymphatic drainage, and manual traction, which may be part of a physical therapy regimen.

These CPT codes are examples of procedures and services that may be relevant for the treatment and management of conditions associated with ICD code M4987. It is important for healthcare providers to select the appropriate CPT codes based on the specific clinical scenario and treatment plan.

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