Other cervical disc degeneration, high cervical region

This code signifies degenerative changes in the intervertebral discs of the high cervical spine (C1-C2 or C2-C3), excluding disc displacement or radiculopathy. It indicates age-related wear and tear, desiccation, or osteophyte formation affecting the structural integrity of these specific discs.

Apply this code when documentation specifies degeneration of the cervical discs in the high cervical region (e.g., C1-C2, C2-C3) without evidence of herniation or nerve root compression. This is appropriate for conditions like cervical spondylosis localized to the upper cervical segments.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly states "high cervical region" or specifies C1-C2/C2-C3 involvement; otherwise, use a more general cervical degeneration code.
• Do not use this code if there is documented disc displacement (e.g., herniation) or radiculopathy; instead, select a code from the M50.2 series.
• This code is often a secondary diagnosis, accompanying codes for symptoms like cervicalgia (M54.2) or other cervical spine disorders.