Other specified spondylopathies, thoracolumbar region

This code represents various non-inflammatory, non-infectious, and non-traumatic degenerative or structural disorders affecting the vertebral column in the thoracic and lumbar regions, not classified elsewhere. These conditions involve abnormalities of the vertebrae, intervertebral discs, or associated ligaments that do not fit into more specific spondylopathy categories.

Use this code when documentation specifies a spondylopathy of the thoracolumbar region that is not clearly defined as spondylosis, spinal stenosis, ankylosing spondylitis, or other more specific M45-M48 codes. This includes conditions like diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) affecting the thoracolumbar spine, or other specified degenerative changes not otherwise classifiable. Documentation should clearly state the specific "other" nature of the spondylopathy.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly states "thoracolumbar region" or specifies both thoracic and lumbar involvement.
• Always review for more specific spondylopathy codes (M45-M48.5) before assigning this "other specified" code.
• This code requires a fifth character to denote the specific region (5 for thoracolumbar).