ICD Code M50.222

ICD code M50.222 refers to "Other cervical disc displacement at C5-C6 level." This code is used to classify and document a specific type of spinal condition where there is an abnormal displacement of an intervertebral disc located between the fifth and sixth cervical vertebrae in the neck. This displacement can lead to symptoms such as neck pain, stiffness, and potentially radiating pain or neurological symptoms if the displaced disc impinges on nearby nerves. Proper coding of this condition is crucial for accurate medical billing and ensuring that healthcare providers receive appropriate reimbursement for the diagnosis and treatment of this spinal issue.

When to use the ICD code M50222 for Other cervical disc displacement at C5-C6 level, consider the following diagnostic criteria and symptoms:

1. Patient History:
- Previous history of cervical spine injuries or trauma.
- History of degenerative disc disease or other spinal disorders.

2. Clinical Symptoms:
- Persistent neck pain localized to the cervical region.
- Radiating pain into the shoulders, arms, or hands.
- Numbness or tingling sensations in the upper extremities.
- Muscle weakness in the arms or hands.

3. Physical Examination Findings:
- Limited range of motion in the cervical spine.
- Tenderness upon palpation of the cervical region.
- Positive neurological examination findings, such as reflex changes.

4. Imaging Studies:
- MRI or CT scan confirming displacement of the cervical disc at the C5-C6 level.
- Evidence of nerve root compression or spinal canal narrowing.

5. Functional Impairment:
- Difficulty performing daily activities due to pain or neurological symptoms.
- Impact on occupational or recreational activities due to cervical spine issues.

6. Response to Conservative Treatment:
- Lack of improvement with conservative management options such as physical therapy, medications, or injections.

7. Referral to Specialist:
- Referral to a spine specialist or neurosurgeon for further evaluation and management if conservative treatment fails.

These criteria should guide healthcare providers in determining the appropriate use of the ICD code M50222 in clinical documentation and billing processes.

For the ICD code M50.222, which pertains to other cervical disc displacement at the C5-C6 level, the relevant CPT codes that may be applicable for treatment include:

1. CPT 22551 - Arthrodesis, anterior interbody technique, including minimal discectomy to prepare interspace (other than for decompression); cervical below C2.

2. CPT 22554 - Arthrodesis, anterior interbody technique, including minimal discectomy to prepare interspace (other than for decompression); cervical below C2.

3. CPT 22845 - Anterior instrumentation; 2 to 3 vertebral segments.

4. CPT 22846 - Anterior instrumentation; 4 to 7 vertebral segments.

5. CPT 63075 - Discectomy, anterior, with decompression of spinal cord and/or nerve root(s), including osteophytectomy; cervical, single interspace.

6. CPT 63076 - Discectomy, anterior, with decompression of spinal cord and/or nerve root(s), including osteophytectomy; cervical, each additional interspace.

7. CPT 22853 - Insertion of interbody biomechanical device(s) (e.g., synthetic cage(s), methylmethacrylate) with integral anterior instrumentation for device anchoring (e.g., screws, flanges), when performed, to intervertebral disc space in conjunction with interbody arthrodesis, each interspace.

These CPT codes are typically used in surgical procedures aimed at addressing cervical disc displacement issues at the C5-C6 level. It is important for healthcare providers to select the appropriate CPT code based on the specific procedure performed and the clinical scenario.

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