Cervical spondylosis with myelopathy

This code signifies a degenerative condition affecting the cervical spine, characterized by the narrowing of the spinal canal or neural foramina, leading to compression of the spinal cord. This compression, known as myelopathy, results in neurological deficits such as weakness, numbness, gait disturbance, and impaired fine motor skills.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates cervical spondylosis with objective evidence of spinal cord compression and associated neurological symptoms. This typically includes findings from imaging studies (MRI, CT) showing spinal cord impingement and neurological examination findings consistent with myelopathy.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "myelopathy" in conjunction with cervical spondylosis; "radiculopathy" alone is insufficient.
• Do not confuse with codes for cervical spondylosis without myelopathy or cervical disc disorders.
• Always sequence this code as the primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter, unless another condition is clearly driving the medical necessity.