Spondyls w/o myelopathy or radiculopathy, lumbosacr region

This code signifies degenerative changes in the lumbosacral spine, characterized by osteophytes and disc space narrowing, but without evidence of spinal cord compression (myelopathy) or nerve root impingement (radiculopathy). It represents a chronic, age-related wear-and-tear process affecting the lower back.

Use this code when diagnostic imaging (e.g., X-ray, MRI) reveals spondylotic changes in the lumbar or sacral spine, and the patient's clinical presentation does not include neurological deficits attributable to myelopathy or radiculopathy. Documentation should clearly state "spondylosis" in the lumbosacral region and explicitly rule out or not mention myelopathy or radiculopathy.

• Ensure documentation specifies the lumbosacral region; other spinal regions have distinct codes.
• Do not use this code if the physician documents myelopathy or radiculopathy; instead, select a more specific code from the M47.1 or M47.2 categories.
• Look for terms like "degenerative disc disease" or "osteoarthritis of the spine" in the lumbosacral region, which may be coded here if myelopathy/radiculopathy are absent.