ICD Code M50.921

ICD code M50921 is used to identify an unspecified cervical disc disorder located 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 classify and code all diagnoses, symptoms, and procedures. The "M" in the code indicates that it pertains to musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders. The specific reference to the C4-C5 level indicates that the issue is occurring between the fourth and fifth cervical vertebrae in the neck. The term "unspecified" suggests that while a disorder is present, the exact nature or cause of the disc problem has not been determined. This code is crucial for accurate medical billing and ensuring that healthcare providers are reimbursed for the services they provide related to this condition.

When to use the ICD code for unspecified cervical disc disorder at the C4-C5 level:

1. Patient Presentation:
- Patient reports neck pain or discomfort.
- Symptoms may radiate to the shoulders or arms.

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

3. Neurological Symptoms:
- Presence of numbness or tingling in the upper extremities.
- Weakness in the arms or hands.

4. Imaging Results:
- MRI or CT scan indicates degenerative changes or disc herniation at the C4-C5 level.
- Absence of specific findings that would classify the disorder as a more defined condition.

5. Duration of Symptoms:
- Symptoms have persisted for a significant period, typically more than a few weeks.
- Chronicity of pain or discomfort without a clear underlying cause.

6. Exclusion of Other Conditions:
- Other potential causes of cervical pain have been ruled out (e.g., fractures, tumors, infections).
- No definitive diagnosis can be made based on the available clinical and imaging data.

7. Treatment History:
- Previous conservative treatments (e.g., physical therapy, medications) have been attempted without significant improvement.
- Consideration for further intervention or management strategies is being evaluated.

For the ICD code M50921, which pertains to an unspecified cervical disc disorder at the C4-C5 level, the relevant CPT codes that may be applicable for treatment include:

1. CPT 62290 - Injection procedure for discography, each level; cervical.

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

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

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

5. CPT 22845 - Anterior instrumentation; 2 to 3 vertebral segments (list separately in addition to code for primary procedure).

6. CPT 22853 - Insertion of interbody biomechanical device(s) (e.g., synthetic cage, mesh) with integral anterior instrumentation for device anchoring, when performed, to intervertebral disc space in conjunction with interbody arthrodesis, each interspace (list separately in addition to code for primary procedure).

These CPT codes are examples of procedures that may be performed to address conditions associated with the ICD code M50921. It is important for healthcare providers to select the appropriate CPT code based on the specific treatment and procedures performed.

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