Other intervertebral disc degeneration, thoracic region

This code signifies the presence of degenerative changes in the intervertebral discs within the thoracic spine, excluding specific conditions like disc herniation with myelopathy or radiculopathy. It represents a general wear-and-tear process affecting the discs in the mid-back region.

Apply this code when documentation indicates thoracic intervertebral disc degeneration without specifying nerve root compression or spinal cord involvement. This is appropriate for patients presenting with chronic thoracic back pain attributed to disc degeneration, or when imaging studies (e.g., MRI) confirm degenerative disc disease in the thoracic spine.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "thoracic region" for disc degeneration; avoid using for cervical or lumbar involvement.
• Do not use this code if the degeneration is specified as disc displacement with myelopathy (G99.2) or radiculopathy (M54.1x).
• Consider sequencing this code as a secondary diagnosis if a more specific condition, such as thoracic spondylosis, is the primary reason for the encounter.