ICD Code M51.37

ICD code M51.37 is used to identify a medical condition characterized by the degeneration of intervertebral discs specifically located in the lumbosacral region of the spine. This area includes the lower back and the sacrum, which is the triangular bone at the base of the spine. Degeneration in this context refers to the wear and tear or deterioration of the disc material, which can lead to symptoms such as pain, reduced mobility, or nerve compression. This code is crucial for healthcare providers to accurately document and communicate the specific nature of a patient's spinal condition for treatment planning and insurance purposes.

When to use the ICD code M5137 for Other intervertebral disc degeneration, lumbosacral region, consider the following diagnostic criteria and symptoms:

1. Patient History
- Documented history of back pain or discomfort in the lumbosacral region.
- Previous diagnoses of intervertebral disc degeneration or related spinal conditions.

2. Clinical Symptoms
- Persistent lower back pain that may radiate to the legs.
- Stiffness or reduced mobility in the lower back.
- Symptoms of nerve compression, such as tingling, numbness, or weakness in the lower extremities.

3. Physical Examination Findings
- Tenderness upon palpation of the lumbosacral area.
- Limited range of motion in the lumbar spine.
- Positive straight leg raise test indicating possible nerve root involvement.

4. Imaging Studies
- MRI or CT scans showing degeneration of intervertebral discs in the lumbosacral region.
- Evidence of disc bulging, herniation, or other degenerative changes.

5. Exclusion of Other Conditions
- Ruling out other potential causes of lower back pain, such as fractures, tumors, or infections.
- Confirmation that symptoms are not attributable to non-degenerative conditions.

6. Functional Impact
- Assessment of how the condition affects daily activities and quality of life.
- Documentation of any limitations in physical function or work-related activities due to the condition.

7. Treatment History
- Previous treatments attempted, such as physical therapy, medications, or injections, and their outcomes.
- Consideration of surgical options if conservative treatments have failed.

By adhering to these criteria, healthcare providers can ensure accurate coding and appropriate documentation for cases of intervertebral disc degeneration in the lumbosacral region.

For the ICD code M51.37, which pertains to other intervertebral disc degeneration in the lumbosacral region, the relevant CPT codes that may be applicable for treatment include:

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

2. CPT 62291 - Injection procedure for discography, each additional level; lumbar.

3. CPT 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 (i.e., fluoroscopy or CT).

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

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

6. CPT 22533 - Arthrodesis, combined posterior or posterolateral technique with posterior interbody technique including laminectomy and/or discectomy sufficient to prepare interspace (other than for decompression), single interspace and segment; lumbar.

7. CPT 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; lumbar.

These CPT codes are commonly associated with procedures that may be performed to address conditions related to the ICD code M51.37. It is important for healthcare providers to verify the specific procedures and corresponding codes based on the individual patient's clinical scenario and the services rendered.

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