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M51.06

Billable

Intervertebral disc disorders with myelopathy, lumbar region

This code does not map to an HCC category in any model (V28, V24, ESRD, RxHCC).

What This Code Means

A condition where a disc in the lower back (lumbar spine) is damaged or displaced, pressing on the spinal cord and causing weakness, numbness, or loss of bowel/bladder control.

Coding Tips

  • •Lumbar myelopathy is serious and often requires surgical intervention; ensure documentation clearly indicates cord compression on imaging
  • •Differentiate from lumbar radiculopathy (M51.16) which affects nerve roots rather than the cord itself

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