Other cervical disc degeneration at C6-C7 level

This code signifies degenerative changes affecting the intervertebral disc located between the sixth and seventh cervical vertebrae (C6-C7), excluding disc displacement or other specified disc disorders. It represents age-related wear and tear or other non-traumatic deterioration of the disc structure at this specific level.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates cervical disc degeneration at the C6-C7 level, without evidence of herniation, displacement, or myelopathy. This is appropriate for conditions like osteoarthritic changes, desiccation, or narrowing of the disc space at C6-C7. Supporting documentation includes imaging reports (X-ray, MRI) confirming degeneration at C6-C7 and physician notes describing the condition.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "other" degeneration and not disc displacement (M50.2-) or disc disorder with myelopathy (M50.0-).
• Verify the specific cervical level (C6-C7) is clearly documented; avoid using unspecified codes if the level is known.
• Code any associated pain (e.g., cervicalgia, radiculopathy) separately, linking it to the degeneration if appropriate.