Other spondylosis with radiculopathy, thoracic region

This code signifies a degenerative condition of the spine in the thoracic region, characterized by the formation of osteophytes and disc degeneration, which is causing compression or irritation of a nerve root. Patients typically experience pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness radiating from the thoracic spine into the chest wall or abdomen.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates spondylosis affecting the thoracic vertebrae, accompanied by symptoms consistent with radiculopathy. This diagnosis is supported by findings such as nerve root compression on imaging (e.g., MRI) and neurological deficits referable to a specific thoracic dermatome.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "radiculopathy" in conjunction with thoracic spondylosis; "myelopathy" would require a different code.
• Distinguish from M47.25 (thoracolumbar region) or M47.26 (lumbar region) based on the specific spinal segment affected.
• Do not use this code if the radiculopathy is due to a disc herniation without underlying spondylosis, as that would be coded differently.