Q05.0
BillableCervical spina bifida with hydrocephalus
HCC Category Mapping
V28HCC 182 — Spinal Cord Disorders/Injuries
0.282V24HCC 72 — Spinal Cord Disorders/Injuries
0.464ESRDHCC 72 — Spinal Cord Disorders/Injuries
0.000RxHCCHCC 155 — Myelitis and Encephalomyelitis
0.000What This Code Means
A birth defect where the spine doesn't close properly in the neck area, combined with fluid buildup in the brain (hydrocephalus).
Coding Tips
- •Confirm both spina bifida and hydrocephalus are documented before coding this combination
- •Specify the cervical location; do not use if the defect is at a different spinal level
Clinical Significance
Cervical spina bifida with hydrocephalus represents a severe congenital condition requiring lifelong multidisciplinary care and monitoring. This complex malformation significantly impacts patient functionality, cognitive development, and quality of life, necessitating comprehensive care coordination and resource allocation.
Documentation Requirements
- ✓Specific anatomical location of spina bifida defect in cervical spine
- ✓Presence and severity of hydrocephalus with imaging findings
- ✓Neurological examination findings and functional deficits
- ✓Current mobility status and assistive device requirements
- ✓Cognitive assessment and developmental status
- ✓Shunt status if present (type, functionality, revision history)
- ✓Associated complications such as bladder/bowel dysfunction
- ✓Current treatment plan and specialist involvement
Commonly Confused Codes
Q050 vs Q760 — Q760 is spina bifida occulta without hydrocephalus, a milder formQ050 vs Q913 — Q913 is hydrocephalus without spina bifidaQ050 vs Q051-Q053 — Different anatomical locations of spina bifida with hydrocephalusQ050 vs G951 — G951 is acquired vascular myelopathy, not congenital spina bifida
Code Hierarchy
└Q05Spina bifida└Q05.0Cervical spina bifida with hydrocephalus
└Q05.0Cervical spina bifida with hydrocephalus