Kissing spine

This code represents spinal stenosis due to approximation of the spinous processes, often referred to as Baastrup's disease or "kissing spine." It involves degenerative changes where adjacent spinous processes hypertrophy and touch, leading to localized pain and sometimes nerve root compression. This condition primarily affects the lumbar spine.

Use this code when documentation explicitly states "kissing spine," "Baastrup's disease," or "interspinous ligament degeneration with approximation of spinous processes." It is typically diagnosed via imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI showing characteristic changes in the spinous processes.

• Ensure documentation specifies the lumbar region if applicable, as this is the most common site.
• Do not confuse with other forms of spinal stenosis (e.g., central canal stenosis, foraminal stenosis) unless Baastrup's disease is also present and documented.
• Code any associated nerve root compression or radiculopathy separately, if documented.