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Home/Diagnosis/ICD-10 Coding for Bulging Lumbar Disc

ICD-10 Coding for Bulging Lumbar Disc

M51.9
M51.1

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for icd-10 coding for bulging lumbar disc includes clinical validation requirements, medical necessity guidelines, and coding policies.

Also Known as:
Lumbar Disc Bulge
Bulging Disc in Lower Back
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Key Information: ICD-10 Coding for Bulging Lumbar Disc

Essential facts and insights about ICD-10 Coding for Bulging Lumbar Disc

Use ICD-10 code M51.9 for intervertebral disc disorder, unspecified, ensuring proper documentation in clinical notes.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes

Intervertebral disc disorder, unspecified

Billable Code
M51.9
Billable

Diagnostic Criteria

  • • MRI shows disc bulge without nerve compression.

Applicable To

  • • Disc bulge without neurological compromise

Important Notes

  • • Ensure documentation specifies 'bulge' and not 'herniation'.

Lumbar and other intervertebral disc disorders with radiculopathy

Non-Billable
M51.1
Non-Billable

Diagnostic Criteria

  • • MRI showing disc bulge compressing nerve root

Applicable To

  • • Disc bulge with radiculopathy

Important Notes

  • • Document radiculopathy clearly linked to the disc bulge.
Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that may be used with this diagnosis

M54.5

Low back pain

Use if no specific disc diagnosis is confirmed.

M54.4

Lumbago with sciatica

Use if radicular symptoms are present but disc etiology is unconfirmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ICD-10 code for a bulging lumbar disc?

The ICD-10 code for a bulging lumbar disc without neurological symptoms is M51.9. If radiculopathy is present, consider using M51.1.

Can a bulging disc be coded as herniation?

No, a bulging disc should not be coded as herniation. Use M51.9 for bulging discs unless herniation is explicitly documented.

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