M51.16
BillableIntervertebral disc disorders with radiculopathy, 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, irritating a nerve root and causing pain, numbness, or weakness radiating down the leg.
Coding Tips
- •This is one of the most common disc-related codes; document which nerve root is affected (L3, L4, L5, or S1) for specificity
- •Sciatica is often associated with L5 or S1 radiculopathy; use this code when disc displacement is confirmed as the cause
Code Hierarchy
└M51Thoracic, thoracolumbar, and lumbosacral intervertebral disc disorders└M51.1Thoracic, thoracolumbar and lumbosacral intervertebral disc disorders with radiculopathy└M51.16Intervertebral disc disorders with radiculopathy, lumbar region
└M51.16Intervertebral disc disorders with radiculopathy, lumbar region