ICD Code M51.362

ICD code M51.362 is used to classify a medical condition characterized by the degeneration of intervertebral discs specifically in the lumbar region of the spine. This degeneration is associated with discogenic back pain, which originates from the discs themselves, and is accompanied by pain that radiates to the lower extremities. This code helps healthcare providers accurately document and communicate the diagnosis for effective treatment planning and billing purposes.

When to use the ICD code M51362:

1. Diagnosis of Intervertebral Disc Degeneration
- Confirmed presence of degeneration in the lumbar intervertebral discs.

2. Discogenic Back Pain
- Patient reports persistent or chronic back pain originating from the lumbar region, specifically linked to disc degeneration.

3. Lower Extremity Pain
- Patient experiences pain radiating to the lower extremities, which may include the legs or feet, associated with the lumbar disc condition.

4. Imaging Findings
- MRI or CT scan results indicating degeneration of lumbar intervertebral discs without significant herniation or other complicating factors.

5. Functional Limitations
- Patient demonstrates limitations in mobility or daily activities due to pain in the lumbar region and lower extremities.

6. Duration of Symptoms
- Symptoms have persisted for a significant duration, typically more than three months, indicating a chronic condition.

7. Exclusion of Other Conditions
- Other potential causes of back and lower extremity pain have been ruled out through clinical evaluation and diagnostic testing.

8. Response to Conservative Treatment
- Patient has undergone conservative treatment options (e.g., physical therapy, medication) without significant improvement in symptoms.

These criteria should be met to accurately assign the ICD code M51362 for billing and documentation purposes in healthcare settings.

For the ICD code M51.362, which pertains to other intervertebral disc degeneration in the lumbar region with discogenic back pain and lower extremity pain, the relevant CPT codes that may be applicable for treatment include:

1. 62323 - 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, lumbar or sacral (caudal); with imaging guidance (e.g., fluoroscopy or CT).

2. 64483 - Injection(s), anesthetic agent and/or steroid, transforaminal epidural; lumbar or sacral, single level.

3. 64635 - Destruction by neurolytic agent, paravertebral facet joint nerve(s), with imaging guidance (fluoroscopy or CT); lumbar or sacral, single facet joint.

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

5. 63030 - Laminotomy (hemilaminectomy), with decompression of nerve root(s), including partial facetectomy, foraminotomy and/or excision of herniated intervertebral disc; 1 interspace, lumbar.

6. 22853 - Insertion of interbody biomechanical device(s) (e.g., synthetic cage, mesh) with integral anterior instrumentation for device anchoring (e.g., screws, flanges), when performed, to intervertebral disc space in conjunction with interbody arthrodesis, each interspace.

These CPT codes are typically used for procedures that may be performed to address the symptoms and conditions associated with the ICD code M51.362. It is important for healthcare providers to select the appropriate CPT code based on the specific treatment plan and procedures performed for each patient.

Discover how MD Clarity's RevFind software can enhance your revenue cycle management by accurately reading your contracts and detecting underpayments for CPT codes related to ICD code M51362. Schedule a demo today to see how RevFind can help ensure you're receiving the full reimbursement you deserve.