Understanding Degenerative Spondylolisthesis, also known as Lumbar Spondylolisthesis or Degenerative Lumbar Spondylolisthesis? This resource provides information on diagnosis, treatment, and medical coding for Degenerative Spondylolisthesis, focusing on clinical documentation best practices for healthcare professionals. Learn about lumbar spondylolisthesis symptoms, causes, and management strategies. Find key details for accurate medical coding and improved patient care related to Degenerative Spondylolisthesis.
Also known as
Spondylolisthesis
Displacement of one vertebra over another.
Other intervertebral disc disorders
Covers other disc disorders, including degeneration.
Spondylosis
Degenerative changes in the spine.
Dorsalgia
Pain in the back, which may be associated.
Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.
Is the spondylolisthesis degenerative?
Yes
Is the location lumbar?
No
Do NOT code as degenerative spondylolisthesis. Review documentation for alternative diagnosis.
When to use each related code
| Description |
|---|
| Forward slippage of vertebra due to degeneration. |
| Vertebral slippage, not due to defect or fracture. |
| Stress fracture in the pars interarticularis. |
Coding lumbar spondylolisthesis as degenerative without confirmation can lead to inaccurate severity reflection and reimbursement issues. Use M43.17x for degenerative type.
Insufficient documentation differentiating degenerative spondylolisthesis from other types can cause coding errors and claim denials. Specify 'degenerative' clearly.
Missing site and laterality information for spondylolisthesis impacts accurate coding and data analysis. Document the specific vertebral level affected.
Q: What are the key clinical indicators differentiating degenerative spondylolisthesis from lumbar spinal stenosis, and how can imaging be used to confirm the diagnosis?
A: While both degenerative spondylolisthesis and lumbar spinal stenosis can present with lower back pain and neurogenic claudication, some key differences exist. Degenerative spondylolisthesis involves the forward slippage of one vertebra on another, most commonly at L4-L5, due to facet joint degeneration. This is distinct from spinal stenosis, which is characterized by narrowing of the spinal canal. Physical exam findings for spondylolisthesis might reveal a palpable step-off at the affected level, while neurological deficits may correlate with the level of nerve root compression. Imaging plays a crucial role in differentiating the two. Radiographs can show the vertebral slippage characteristic of spondylolisthesis, while MRI is essential to assess the degree of nerve root compression and rule out other pathologies like disc herniation. CT scans can provide detailed bony anatomy. Explore how combining physical exam findings with targeted imaging can lead to accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment planning for patients with suspected degenerative spondylolisthesis. Consider implementing a standardized imaging protocol for differentiating these conditions in your practice.
Q: How do I determine the most appropriate non-surgical management strategy for a patient with mild to moderate degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis and persistent pain?
A: Non-surgical management is often the first line of treatment for mild to moderate degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis. Initial strategies often involve a combination of pain management with NSAIDs or other analgesics, activity modification to avoid aggravating activities, and physical therapy focusing on core strengthening and lumbar stabilization exercises. Furthermore, consider implementing an individualized exercise program based on the patient's specific symptoms and functional limitations. If pain persists despite these measures, epidural steroid injections may be considered for short-term pain relief. It's crucial to carefully evaluate the patient's response to each intervention and adjust the treatment plan accordingly. Learn more about how tailored exercise programs and pain management strategies can help improve patient outcomes in degenerative spondylolisthesis.
Patient presents with complaints of low back pain, often described as aching or stiffness, and potentially radiating pain to the buttocks and thighs, consistent with lumbar spondylolisthesis. Symptoms may be exacerbated by prolonged standing, walking, or activities that stress the lower spine. Physical examination reveals tenderness to palpation in the lumbar region and potentially limited range of motion. Neurological examination may demonstrate sensory or motor deficits, depending on the degree of nerve root compression. Radiographic imaging, including X-rays, CT scans, or MRI of the lumbar spine, confirms the diagnosis of degenerative spondylolisthesis, showing anterior displacement of one vertebra relative to the vertebra below, commonly at L4-L5 or L5-S1. The imaging also demonstrates degenerative changes such as facet joint hypertrophy and disc space narrowing, characteristic of degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis. Differential diagnosis includes spinal stenosis, herniated disc, and other causes of low back pain. Treatment plan includes conservative management with physical therapy focused on core strengthening, pain management with NSAIDs or other analgesics, and activity modification. Surgical intervention may be considered if conservative treatment fails to provide adequate relief or if neurological deficits progress. Patient education regarding proper body mechanics and lifestyle modifications to minimize stress on the lower back is essential. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor symptom progression and treatment efficacy. ICD-10 code M43.1 is used for degenerative spondylolisthesis.