ICD Code M50.821

ICD code M50821 is used to identify and classify other cervical disc disorders specifically occurring at the C4-C5 level of the spine. This code is part of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) system, which is used by healthcare providers to document and categorize various health conditions for billing and statistical purposes. The C4-C5 level refers to the fourth and fifth cervical vertebrae in the neck region. Disorders at this level can include conditions such as disc degeneration, herniation, or other abnormalities that may cause symptoms like neck pain, stiffness, or neurological issues due to nerve compression. Proper coding with M50821 ensures accurate communication of the patient's condition for treatment planning and insurance reimbursement.

When considering the use of the ICD code M50821 for other cervical disc disorders at the C4-C5 level, the following diagnostic criteria and symptoms should be evaluated:

1. Patient History
- Previous history of cervical spine issues or injuries.
- Presence 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 scans showing degeneration or abnormalities at the C4-C5 level.
- Evidence of disc herniation or bulging affecting adjacent nerve roots.

5. Functional Impairment
- Difficulty performing daily activities due to neck pain or neurological symptoms.
- Impact on occupational duties or recreational activities.

6. Response to Conservative Treatment
- Lack of improvement with physical therapy, medications, or other non-invasive treatments.
- Persistence of symptoms despite conservative management efforts.

7. Exclusion of Other Conditions
- Ruling out other potential causes of cervical pain or neurological symptoms, such as fractures, tumors, or infections.

By assessing these criteria, healthcare providers can determine the appropriateness of using the ICD code M50821 in their documentation and billing processes.

For the ICD code M50.821, which pertains to other cervical disc disorders at the C4-C5 level, the relevant CPT codes that may be applicable for treatment include:

1. CPT 22551 - Anterior cervical discectomy, decompression of spinal cord and/or nerve root(s), including osteophytectomy; single interspace, cervical.

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.

7. CPT 20930 - Allograft, morselized, or placement of osteopromotive material, for spine surgery only.

8. CPT 20931 - Allograft, structural, for spine surgery only.

These CPT codes are commonly associated with surgical and procedural interventions for cervical disc disorders at the C4-C5 level. It is important for healthcare providers to verify the specific procedures performed and ensure accurate coding based on the services rendered.

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