ICD Code M51.14

ICD code M51.14 is used to classify and document a medical condition known as intervertebral disc disorders with radiculopathy in the thoracic region. This code specifically refers to issues with the discs located between the vertebrae in the middle part of the spine, known as the thoracic spine. Radiculopathy indicates that there is nerve pain or other neurological symptoms, such as tingling, numbness, or weakness, resulting from compression or irritation of the spinal nerve roots in this area. This code is essential for healthcare providers to accurately record and communicate the diagnosis for treatment planning and insurance billing purposes.

When to use the ICD code M5114:

1. Presence of Intervertebral Disc Disorder
- Documented diagnosis of intervertebral disc disorder affecting the thoracic region.

2. Radiculopathy Symptoms
- Patient reports symptoms consistent with radiculopathy, such as:
- Pain radiating from the thoracic spine to the chest or abdomen.
- Numbness or tingling sensations in the thoracic region.
- Weakness in the muscles innervated by affected thoracic nerve roots.

3. Neurological Examination Findings
- Positive neurological examination indicating:
- Decreased reflexes in the thoracic region.
- Sensory deficits corresponding to specific thoracic nerve roots.

4. Imaging Studies
- MRI or CT scan results confirming the presence of disc herniation or degeneration in the thoracic spine.

5. Exclusion of Other Conditions
- Ruling out other potential causes of thoracic pain or radiculopathy, such as:
- Spinal tumors.
- Infections.
- Other neurological disorders.

6. Duration of Symptoms
- Symptoms have persisted for a specific duration, typically more than a few weeks, indicating a chronic condition.

7. Impact on Daily Activities
- Documented impact on the patient's daily activities or quality of life due to symptoms.

8. Treatment History
- Previous conservative treatment measures attempted, such as physical therapy or medication, without significant improvement.

By adhering to these diagnostic criteria, healthcare providers can accurately determine when to utilize the ICD code M5114 for appropriate documentation and billing purposes.

For the ICD code M51.14, which pertains to intervertebral disc disorders with radiculopathy in the thoracic region, the relevant CPT codes that may be applicable for treatment include:

1. CPT 62287 - Aspiration or decompression procedure, percutaneous, of nucleus pulposus of intervertebral disc, any method, single or multiple levels, lumbar (including use of contrast to confirm needle placement), when performed, excluding cervical and thoracic.

2. CPT 63030 - Laminotomy (hemilaminectomy), with decompression of nerve root(s), including partial facetectomy, foraminotomy and/or excision of herniated intervertebral disc, one interspace, lumbar.

3. CPT 63042 - Laminotomy (hemilaminectomy), with decompression of nerve root(s), including partial facetectomy, foraminotomy and/or excision of herniated intervertebral disc, re-exploration, single interspace; thoracic.

4. CPT 63047 - Laminectomy, facetectomy and foraminotomy (unilateral or bilateral with decompression of spinal cord, cauda equina and/or nerve root(s), (e.g., spinal or lateral recess stenosis)), single vertebral segment; lumbar.

5. CPT 63048 - Laminectomy, facetectomy and foraminotomy (unilateral or bilateral with decompression of spinal cord, cauda equina and/or nerve root(s), (e.g., spinal or lateral recess stenosis)), each additional segment, thoracic or lumbar (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure).

6. CPT 22830 - Exploration of spinal fusion.

These CPT codes are examples of procedures that may be performed to address conditions associated with the ICD code M51.14. It is important for healthcare providers to select the appropriate CPT code based on the specific procedure performed and the clinical scenario. Always ensure coding accuracy by consulting the latest CPT codebook and guidelines.

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