Osteophyte, vertebrae

This code describes the presence of a bony outgrowth, or osteophyte, specifically located on the vertebrae. These formations are typically associated with degenerative changes in the spine, such as osteoarthritis, and can impinge on nerves or restrict spinal movement.

This code is appropriate when documentation explicitly identifies an osteophyte on any vertebral segment (cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral). It is often used in conjunction with codes for underlying spinal degenerative conditions or when the osteophyte itself is causing symptoms.

• Always specify the exact vertebral region if documented (e.g., cervical, lumbar) using a more specific subcategory if available.
• Do not code this alone if the osteophyte is an integral part of a more specific degenerative spinal condition that is fully described and coded.
• Ensure documentation clearly states "osteophyte" or "bone spur" on the vertebrae, rather than just general degenerative changes.