Spondyls w/o myelopathy or radiculopathy, thoracolum region

This code signifies degenerative changes in the spinal vertebrae of the thoracic and lumbar regions, consistent with spondylosis. Importantly, it specifies the absence of neurological compromise affecting the spinal cord (myelopathy) or nerve roots (radiculopathy). It describes a chronic, non-inflammatory condition of the spine.

Use this code for patients presenting with back pain localized to the thoracolumbar spine, where imaging (e.g., X-ray, MRI) confirms spondylotic changes. Documentation should explicitly state "spondylosis" in the thoracolumbar region and clearly rule out any signs or symptoms of myelopathy or radiculopathy. This code is appropriate when the degenerative changes are the primary diagnosis or a significant contributing factor to the patient's symptoms.

• Ensure the physician's documentation specifically excludes myelopathy and radiculopathy. If either is present, a more specific code is required.
• Do not confuse this with codes for spondylolisthesis or spinal stenosis, which are distinct conditions, though they can co-occur.
• Always confirm the specific spinal region (thoracolumbar) to avoid miscoding with cervical or lumbosacral spondylosis.