ICD 10 CM M43.22 | Description & Clinical Information
ICD 10 M43.22 describes a medical condition characterized by the fusion of the cervical region of the spine, which occurs when the joints of the vertebrae adhere to each other, leading to restricted movement and can be caused by a variety of factors such as disease, injury, or surgery.
Official Description Of M43.22
The ICD 10 CM book defines ICD 10 code M43.22 as:
Excludes1: ankylosing spondylitis (M45.0-)
congenital fusion of spine (Q76.4)
Excludes2: arthrodesis status (Z98.1)
pseudoarthrosis after fusion or arthrodesis (M96.0)
Excludes1: congenital spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis (Q76.2)
hemivertebra (Q76.3-Q76.4)
Klippel-Feil syndrome (Q76.1)
lumbarization and sacralization (Q76.4)
platyspondylisis (Q76.4)
spina bifida occulta (Q76.0)
spinal curvature in osteoporosis (M80.-)
spinal curvature in Paget’s disease of bone [osteitis deformans] (M88.-)
When To Use M43.22
The diagnosis described by ICD 10 CM M43.22 pertains to a condition that affects the cervical region of the spine. This condition may result in symptoms such as pain, stiffness, and inflexibility of a joint. Healthcare providers diagnose the condition based on a patient’s history, physical examination, and X-rays.
The cervical spine is the uppermost section of the spine, which supports the head and allows it to move. However, due to various circumstances, this part of the spine can become damaged or injured, which can lead to a range of symptoms. These symptoms may include radiating pain, reduced mobility, and limitations in range of motion.
The diagnosis code M43.22 specifically pertains to spinal fusion, which is a surgical procedure used to treat a range of spinal conditions. Despite the effectiveness of spinal fusion, it is not without some complications. One such complication is the stiffness, pain, or inflexibility of a joint that can present itself after surgery. This complication is what the M43.22 diagnosis code describes.
To make a diagnosis using the M43.22 code, a patient’s medical history must be examined. This will allow the healthcare provider to understand the underlying conditions or circumstances that led to their spinal condition. Physical examination of the affected area is also important, as it will help the provider assess the level of healing and identify any visible symptoms. X-rays, CT scans or MRI might be necessary to ensure that the diagnosis is accurate.
Once a diagnosis has been made, treatment options can be considered. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are often used to manage the pain associated with this condition. Physical therapy can also help improve the patient’s range of motion and flexibility. Meanwhile, patients who do not achieve any improvement with non-invasive methods may require surgery.
It is important to note that while the diagnosis code M43.22 may not specify the reason for the cervical spine injury, the underlying causes must still be treated. This may involve treating a chronic underlying condition or physical therapy to help prevent further injury.
In conclusion, the ICD 10 CM M43.22 diagnosis code describes the complications associated with spinal fusion of the cervical region. It is essential that healthcare providers use this code accurately to ensure that patients receive the appropriate treatment. At the same time, patients with spinal complications in the cervical region need to undergo a thorough examination to identify the underlying cause of their condition and get the most effective treatment.
