Osteomyelitis of vertebra, sacral and sacrococcygeal region

This code signifies an infection of the vertebral bone within the sacral or sacrococcygeal region. It indicates inflammation and destruction of the bone and bone marrow in this specific spinal area, typically caused by bacterial infection.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states a diagnosis of osteomyelitis affecting the sacrum or coccyx. This diagnosis is often supported by imaging studies (e.g., MRI, CT) showing bone destruction and inflammation, along with clinical signs of infection (fever, pain, elevated inflammatory markers).

• Ensure documentation specifies the sacral or sacrococcygeal region; do not use for osteomyelitis in other spinal segments.
• Code any associated infectious organism (e.g., B95-B97) as an additional diagnosis, if identified.
• Distinguish from discitis (M46.4-) or spondylodiscitis, which primarily involve the intervertebral disc.