Infection of intvrt disc (pyogenic), thoracolumbar region

This code signifies a bacterial or other purulent infection affecting the intervertebral disc specifically within the thoracolumbar region of the spine. This condition, often referred to as discitis, involves inflammation and destruction of the disc tissue due to an infectious agent.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates an infectious, typically pyogenic, process involving an intervertebral disc located between the thoracic and lumbar vertebrae. Supporting documentation would include physician notes detailing discitis, osteomyelitis of the vertebral body adjacent to the disc, positive cultures, or imaging findings consistent with an infectious disc process in the specified spinal region.

• Ensure the documentation specifies the thoracolumbar region; other spinal regions have different codes.
• Look for explicit mention of "pyogenic" or evidence of bacterial infection (e.g., positive cultures, abscess formation).
• Code any associated osteomyelitis of the vertebral body separately, if documented, as this code is specific to the disc.