Kissing spine, lumbar region

This code describes Baastrup's disease, also known as "kissing spine," specifically affecting the lumbar region of the spine. It is characterized by degenerative changes and close approximation of adjacent spinous processes, leading to friction and potential bone marrow edema, bursitis, or enthesopathy. This condition can cause localized back pain and tenderness.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates Baastrup's disease or "kissing spine" located in the lumbar spine. Supporting documentation often includes imaging reports (e.g., X-ray, MRI) detailing the close contact and degenerative changes of the lumbar spinous processes, along with clinical notes describing associated symptoms.

• Ensure the documentation specifies the lumbar region; other spinal regions have different codes.
• Do not confuse with general spondylosis or other degenerative disc diseases unless Baastrup's is explicitly diagnosed.
• Look for terms like "Baastrup's disease," "interspinous osteoarthropathy," or "kissing spinous processes" in the lumbar area.