Cerv disc disorder with radiculopathy, high cervical region

This code signifies a condition where a cervical intervertebral disc in the C1-C4 region is causing nerve root compression, leading to symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness radiating into the upper extremities. It specifically identifies disc pathology in the uppermost part of the cervical spine that is clinically manifesting with radicular symptoms.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a cervical disc disorder affecting the high cervical (C1-C4) region, accompanied by objective or subjective evidence of radiculopathy. Supporting documentation typically includes physician notes detailing neurological deficits, imaging reports (MRI, CT) showing disc herniation or bulging at C1-C4, and electrodiagnostic studies confirming nerve root involvement.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "high cervical" (C1-C4) involvement; otherwise, use a more general cervical region code.
• Distinguish from cervical myelopathy (G99.2), which involves spinal cord compression rather than nerve root compression.
• Always sequence this code after any underlying cause if applicable, and consider additional codes for specific symptoms if not fully encompassed by radiculopathy.