M48.061 – Spinal stenosis, lumbar region without neurogenic claudication | ICD-10-CM

M48.061 diagnosis code: Spinal stenosis, lumbar region without neurogenic claudication

The M48.061 ICD-10 code denotes spinal stenosis in the lumbar region without accompanying neurogenic claudication. Here are additional details related to code M48.061:

• It falls under the “Diseases of the musculoskeletal system and connective tissue” umbrella, more specifically, under “Other spondylopathies.”
• Lumbar spinal stenosis is a degenerative condition in which the spinal canal in the lower part of the back, the lumbar region, narrows, putting pressure on the spinal cord or its corresponding nerves. This condition potentially leads to symptoms such as lower back pain or sciatica, but without the leg pain or weakness typically associated with neurogenic claudication.

Is M48.061 billable?

Yes. M48.061 is a billable ICD-10-CM code for healthcare diagnosis reimbursement for spinal stenosis in the lumbar region without neurogenic claudication. 

Clinical information

Spinal stenosis is a degenerative condition that most commonly affects people aged 60 and older. However, it can also occur in younger individuals, particularly those with rheumatoid arthritis, certain bone diseases, spinal injuries or tumors, a naturally narrow spinal canal, or a history of spine surgery.

Symptoms of spinal stenosis are loss of bowel or bladder function, sciatica, calf cramping, or pain/numbness/weakness in the buttocks, calves, and legs. It is possible, however, that the patient may not experience these symptoms, especially if they don't have any neurogenic claudication, whose symptoms are pain, tingling, or cramping in the affected extremities. 

To diagnose, the referring practitioner, specifically a neurosurgeon, will gather a patient's medical history, check their symptoms, perform a physical examination, and conduct imaging studies such as an X-ray, CT scan, CAT scan, EMG, MRI, and myelogram. 

Though there is no cure for spinal stenosis, there are treatments to help the patient cope with their condition. Surgery is an option in emergencies or extreme situations. But those who don't need surgery can treat their condition with physical therapy, medicine, chiropractic medicine, and acupuncture.

Synonyms include:

• Spinal stenosis of lumbar region
• Degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis
• Stenosis of lumbar vertebral foramen
• Idiopathic lumbar spinal stenosis

Other ICD-10 codes commonly used for spinal stenosis

• M48.00: Spinal stenosis, site unspecified
• M48.07: Spinal stenosis, lumbosacral region
• M48.08: Spinal stenosis, sacral and sacrococcygeal region
• M48.02: Spinal stenosis, cervical region
• M48.06: Spinal stenosis, lumbar region
• M48.062: Spinal stenosis, lumbar region with neurogenic claudication