ICD Code M50.820

ICD code M50820 is used to identify and classify disorders related to the cervical discs located in the mid-cervical region of the spine, where the specific level of the disorder is not specified. This code is part of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) system, which is used by healthcare providers to document and report diagnoses. The "M50" category refers to cervical disc disorders, and the "820" extension indicates that the disorder is in the mid-cervical region but does not specify the exact vertebrae affected. This code helps in standardizing the diagnosis for billing, treatment planning, and statistical purposes.

When to use the ICD code M50820, which pertains to other cervical disc disorders in the mid-cervical region, unspecified level, consider the following diagnostic criteria and symptoms:

1. Patient History
- A history of neck pain or discomfort that may be chronic or acute.
- Previous cervical spine injuries or trauma.

2. Physical Examination Findings
- Limited range of motion in the cervical spine.
- Tenderness upon palpation of the cervical region.

3. Neurological Symptoms
- Presence of radiculopathy, characterized by pain radiating into the arms or shoulders.
- Numbness or tingling sensations in the upper extremities.

4. Imaging Studies
- MRI or CT scans indicating disc degeneration, herniation, or other abnormalities in the mid-cervical region.
- X-rays showing signs of cervical disc disease, such as disc space narrowing or osteophyte formation.

5. Exclusion of Other Conditions
- Ruling out other potential causes of cervical pain, such as fractures, tumors, or inflammatory diseases.
- Confirmation that symptoms are not attributable to systemic conditions.

6. Response to Conservative Treatment
- Lack of improvement with conservative management strategies, such as physical therapy or medication.
- Persistence of symptoms despite non-invasive interventions.

7. Functional Impairment
- Impact on daily activities or quality of life due to cervical pain or associated symptoms.
- Difficulty performing work-related tasks that require neck mobility or strength.

These criteria should guide healthcare providers in determining the appropriate use of the ICD code M50820 for documentation and billing purposes.

For the ICD code M50.820, which pertains to other cervical disc disorders in the mid-cervical region at an unspecified level, the relevant CPT codes that may be applicable for treatment include:

1. CPT 62320 - Injection(s), of diagnostic or therapeutic substance(s) (e.g., anesthetic, antispasmodic, opioid, steroid, other solution), not including neurolytic substances, including needle or catheter placement, interlaminar epidural or subarachnoid, cervical or thoracic; without imaging guidance.

2. CPT 62321 - Injection(s), of diagnostic or therapeutic substance(s) (e.g., anesthetic, antispasmodic, opioid, steroid, other solution), not including neurolytic substances, including needle or catheter placement, interlaminar epidural or subarachnoid, cervical or thoracic; with imaging guidance (i.e., fluoroscopy or CT).

3. CPT 63020 - Laminotomy (hemilaminectomy), with decompression of nerve root(s), including partial facetectomy, foraminotomy and/or excision of herniated intervertebral disc, cervical, single interspace.

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

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

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

These CPT codes are examples of procedures that may be used to treat conditions associated with the ICD code M50.820. The selection of specific CPT codes should be based on the individual patient's clinical scenario and the healthcare provider's treatment plan.

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