Cervical Facet Arthropathy ICD-10-CM Codes

What ICD-10 Codes are Used for Cervical Facet Arthropathy? 

Cervical facet arthropathy is a prevalent medical condition characterized by degenerative changes within the facet joints of the cervical spine. The International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision (ICD-10), offers a range of specific codes to accurately classify and document this condition for medical billing and coding purposes. These codes enable healthcare providers, insurance companies, and billing departments to communicate the diagnosis and facilitate appropriate reimbursement effectively. Here, we present a comprehensive list of 10 commonly used Cervical Facet Arthropathy ICD Codes, along with their clinical descriptions:

1. M46.92 - Cervical spine disorders in diseases classified elsewhere, unspecified: This code is utilized when cervical facet arthropathy is a secondary condition from other underlying diseases.
2. M12.9 - Unspecified arthropathy: While not exclusive to cervical facet arthropathy, this code might be chosen when the exact cause remains unclear or when there's a focus on the broader arthropathy context.
3. M53.82 - Other specified dorsopathies, cervical region: This code encompasses various specific dorsopathies, including those affecting the cervical facet joints.
4. M47.812 - Other spondylosis of cervical region: Indicative of degenerative changes, including facet joint issues, in the cervical spine, this code aids in pinpointing the specific location of the spondylosis.
5. M46.96 - Sacroiliitis, not elsewhere classified: Although typically associated with the sacroiliac joint, this code might be applicable when cervical facet arthropathy is linked to inflammatory processes.
6. M53.89 - Other specified dorsopathies: Employed for classifying various specific dorsopathies, this code could encapsulate instances of facet arthropathy affecting the cervical region.
7. M47.814 - Other spondylosis, cervical region: Similar to M47.812, this code is employed for other forms of spondylosis involving the cervical region, encompassing potential facet-related concerns.
8. M12.2 - Chronic postrheumatic arthropathy: If cervical facet arthropathy arises from post-rheumatic conditions, this code is suitable for conveying the link between the conditions.
9. M46.22 - Other infective spondylopathies, cervical region: This code can effectively communicate that aspect when cervical facet arthropathy stems from infection or other infectious processes.
10. M53.81 - Other specified dorsopathies, occipito-atlanto-axial region: While slightly superior on the spinal column, this code might be selected when facet arthropathy extends to the occipital or upper cervical region.

As accurate coding is pivotal in healthcare, involving a qualified medical coder or healthcare professional in the process ensures adherence to the correct coding practices, ultimately benefiting patients and healthcare providers.

Which Cervical Facet Arthropathy ICD codes are Billable?

Here's a list of commonly used ICD-10 codes for cervical facet arthropathy, along with their billable status:

M46.92 - Cervical spine disorders in diseases classified elsewhere, unspecified

Yes.  This code is billable when cervical facet arthropathy is a secondary condition due to other underlying diseases.

M12.9 - Unspecified arthropathy

Yes. While not specific to cervical facet arthropathy, this code may be billable when the exact cause is unclear or when focusing on a broader arthropathy condition.

M53.82 - Other specified dorsopathies, cervical region

Yes. This code can be billable for specific dorsopathies, including facet joint-related issues in the cervical region.

M47.812 - Other spondylosis of cervical region

Yes. This code is billable for spondylosis-related conditions, encompassing degenerative changes, including facet arthropathy in the cervical spine.

M46.96 - Sacroiliitis, not elsewhere classified

While typically associated with the sacroiliac joint, whether this code is billable for cervical facet arthropathy depends on the specific clinical context and documentation.

M53.89 - Other specified dorsopathies

Yes. This code is billable for other specific dorsopathies, which might include facet arthropathy affecting the cervical region.

M47.814 - Other spondylosis, cervical region

Yes.  Similar to M47.812, this code is billable for various forms of spondylosis affecting the cervical region, potentially involving facet-related issues.

M12.2 - Chronic postrheumatic arthropathy

Yes. This code can be billable if cervical facet arthropathy is a consequence of post-rheumatic conditions.

M46.22 - Other infective spondylopathies, cervical region

Whether this code is billable depends on whether cervical facet arthropathy is caused by infection or infectious processes.

M53.81 - Other specified dorsopathies, occipito-atlanto-axial region

Depending on the specific clinical scenario, This code could be billable if facet arthropathy extends to the occipital or upper cervical region.

Clinical Information

Definition

• Cervical facet arthropathy is a degenerative condition affecting the facet joints in the cervical spine. These joints enable neck movement and stability.

Causes

• Degeneration: Natural wear and tear over time leads to cartilage breakdown and bone spur formation in facet joints.
• Injury: Trauma, such as accidents or repetitive strain, can accelerate joint degeneration.
• Inflammation: Chronic inflammation due to autoimmune disorders can contribute.

Symptoms

• Neck Pain: Persistent pain in the neck region, often worsened by movement.
• Limited Motion: Reduced flexibility and difficulty turning the neck.
• Radiating Pain: Discomfort extending to shoulders, upper back, and arms.
• Headaches: Neck-related headaches due to joint irritation.
• Muscle Tension: Muscle spasms and stiffness around the affected area.

Diagnosis

• Clinical Evaluation: Assessment of pain patterns, range of motion, and tenderness.
• Imaging: X-rays, MRI, and CT scans reveal joint degeneration and structural changes.
• Diagnostic Injections: Pain-relieving injections targeting facet joints to confirm their involvement.

Treatment

• Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) alleviate pain and inflammation.
• Physical Therapy: Specific exercises enhance neck flexibility, strength, and posture.
• Injections: Corticosteroid injections provide temporary relief from pain and swelling.
• Radiofrequency Ablation: Heat-based procedure to disrupt pain signals from affected nerves.
• Lifestyle Adjustments: Ergonomic changes, posture improvement, and gentle exercises.

Surgical Options

• Reserved Approach: Surgery is considered if conservative methods fail to manage pain.
• Procedures: Facet joint denervation or spinal fusion may be performed for severe cases.

Prognosis

• Management: Most individuals experience reduced pain and improved function with appropriate care.
• Long-term Strategies: Consistent exercises, pain management, and ergonomic practices are crucial for ongoing well-being.

Prevention

• Posture Awareness: Maintaining good posture to minimize joint stress.
• Regular Exercise: Strengthening neck muscles and staying active supports joint health.

Synonyms Include

• Cervical Facet Joint Arthritis
• Cervical Spine Facet Degeneration
• Cervical Zygapophysial Joint Arthropathy
• Cervical Facet Joint Osteoarthritis
• Cervical Facet Joint Syndrome