ICD Code M50.323

ICD code M50323 is used to identify a specific medical condition known as "Other cervical disc degeneration at C6-C7 level." 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. In this case, the code M50323 refers to the degeneration of the intervertebral disc located between the sixth and seventh cervical vertebrae in the neck. This condition can lead to symptoms such as neck pain, stiffness, and possibly radiating pain or neurological symptoms if the degeneration affects nearby nerves. Proper coding of this condition is crucial for accurate medical records, billing, and insurance claims processing.

When to use the ICD code for Other cervical disc degeneration at C6-C7 level:

1. Presence of Cervical Pain
- Patient reports localized pain in the neck region.

2. Radiating Symptoms
- Patient experiences radiating pain or discomfort into the shoulders, arms, or upper back.

3. Neurological Symptoms
- Presence of numbness, tingling, or weakness in the upper extremities.

4. Limited Range of Motion
- Patient exhibits restricted movement in the cervical spine, particularly in flexion and extension.

5. Imaging Findings
- MRI or CT scans reveal degeneration of the cervical disc at the C6-C7 level.

6. Chronic Symptoms
- Symptoms persist for an extended period, typically more than three months.

7. Exclusion of Other Conditions
- Other potential causes of cervical pain and symptoms have been ruled out, such as fractures, tumors, or infections.

8. Functional Impairment
- Patient reports difficulty performing daily activities due to neck pain or associated symptoms.

9. Response to Conservative Treatment
- Lack of improvement or worsening of symptoms despite conservative management, such as physical therapy or medication.

10. Patient History
- Relevant history of previous cervical spine issues or degenerative disc disease.

For the ICD code M50.323, which pertains to other cervical disc degeneration at the C6-C7 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 - Diskectomy, anterior, with decompression of spinal cord and/or nerve root(s), including osteophytectomy; cervical, single interspace.

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

These CPT codes are commonly associated with surgical procedures that address cervical disc degeneration, particularly at the C6-C7 level. It is important for healthcare providers to verify the specific procedures performed and ensure accurate coding for proper reimbursement.

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