Spinal stenosis, occipito-atlanto-axial region

This code represents a narrowing of the spinal canal in the uppermost part of the cervical spine, specifically at the junction of the skull (occiput), the first cervical vertebra (atlas), and the second cervical vertebra (axis). This narrowing can compress the spinal cord or nerve roots, leading to neurological symptoms.

This code is appropriate for documenting a confirmed diagnosis of spinal stenosis affecting the occipito-atlanto-axial region. Documentation should clearly specify the anatomical location of the stenosis, often supported by imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states the "occipito-atlanto-axial region" to support this specific code.
• Do not confuse with stenosis in other cervical regions (e.g., C3-C7), which have different codes.
• Code any associated neurological deficits (e.g., myelopathy, radiculopathy) separately as secondary diagnoses.