ICD Code M50.223

ICD code M50.223 refers to a condition involving the displacement of an intervertebral disc located between the sixth (C6) and seventh (C7) cervical vertebrae in the neck. This displacement can lead to symptoms such as neck pain, stiffness, or neurological issues like tingling or weakness in the arms, depending on the severity and impact on surrounding nerves. This code is used by healthcare providers to document and classify this specific spinal condition for billing, treatment planning, and statistical purposes.

When to use the ICD code M50223 for Other cervical disc displacement at C6-C7 level, consider the following diagnostic criteria and symptoms:

1. Patient History
- Previous history of cervical spine injuries or degenerative disc disease.
- Reports of chronic neck pain or discomfort.

2. Clinical Symptoms
- Radiating pain from the neck to the shoulders or arms.
- 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 results indicating displacement of cervical discs, specifically at the C6-C7 level.
- Evidence of nerve root compression or spinal cord involvement.

5. Functional Impairment
- Difficulty performing daily activities due to neck pain or neurological symptoms.
- Impact on occupational duties or quality of life due to cervical spine issues.

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

7. Referral to Specialist
- Recommendation from a primary care physician or specialist for further evaluation or intervention based on the above findings.

These criteria should guide healthcare providers in determining the appropriate use of the ICD code M50223 in clinical documentation and billing processes.

For the ICD code M50.223, which pertains to other cervical disc displacement at the C6-C7 level, the relevant CPT codes that may be applicable for treatment include:

1. CPT 63075 - Anterior cervical discectomy, single interspace.

2. CPT 63076 - Anterior cervical discectomy, each additional interspace.

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

4. CPT 22552 - Arthrodesis, anterior interbody technique, including minimal discectomy to prepare interspace (other than for decompression); each additional interspace, cervical below C2.

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

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

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 commonly used in procedures addressing cervical disc displacement at the C6-C7 level, and healthcare providers should ensure accurate coding based on the specific services rendered.

Discover how MD Clarity's RevFind software can enhance your revenue cycle management by accurately reading your contracts and detecting underpayments for CPT codes associated with ICD code M50223. Schedule a demo today to see how RevFind can help you capture every dollar you're owed.