Q05.8

Billable

Sacral spina bifida without hydrocephalus

HCC Category Mapping

V28HCC 182 — Spinal Cord Disorders/Injuries

0.282

V24HCC 72 — Spinal Cord Disorders/Injuries

0.464

ESRDHCC 72 — Spinal Cord Disorders/Injuries

0.000

RxHCCHCC 155 — Myelitis and Encephalomyelitis

0.000

What This Code Means

A birth defect where the spinal column doesn't fully close in the sacral (lower spine) area, but without fluid buildup in the brain.

Coding Tips

•Verify documentation specifies sacral location and confirms absence of hydrocephalus
•Distinguish from Q05.9 (unspecified) - Q05.8 requires documented sacral site

Clinical Significance

Sacral spina bifida without hydrocephalus typically presents with less severe neurological deficits than higher-level lesions but still requires monitoring for bladder/bowel dysfunction and orthopedic complications. Early intervention and appropriate management can significantly improve quality of life and functional outcomes.

Documentation Requirements

✓Confirmation of sacral spine involvement (S1-S5)
✓Absence of hydrocephalus documented
✓Assessment of bladder and bowel function
✓Lower extremity motor and sensory function
✓Evaluation for foot deformities or leg length discrepancy
✓History of surgical repair procedures
✓Ongoing urological monitoring and care
✓Assessment of sexual function in appropriate age groups

Commonly Confused Codes

Q05.3 — sacral spina bifida with hydrocephalus Q05.7 — lumbar spina bifida without hydrocephalus Q76.49 — other congenital malformations of spine Q64.79 — other congenital malformations of bladder and urethra S34.3 — injury to cauda equina

Code Hierarchy

└Q05Spina bifida └Q05.8Sacral spina bifida without hydrocephalus

└Q05.8Sacral spina bifida without hydrocephalus