What does ICD-10-CM code M54.16 mean?
M54.16 represents Radiculopathy, lumbar region. This musculoskeletal condition falls under Chapter 13 (Diseases of the Musculoskeletal System) and is among the most common reasons for outpatient visits. Coders frequently reference this code as lumbar radiculopathy icd 10, icd 10 code for lumbar radiculopathy, right lumbar radiculopathy icd 10, or left lumbar radiculopathy icd 10.
Code category and hierarchy
- Chapter: 13 – Diseases of the Musculoskeletal System (M00-M99)
- Category: M54
- Code: M54.16 – Radiculopathy, lumbar region
Guideline notes and coding considerations
Important Guideline Note
Assign M54.16 only when documentation clearly supports this diagnosis. Review the excludes notes and ensure no conflicts with other assigned codes.
- Specificity: Assign M54.16 only when documentation supports this specific diagnosis.
Learn the underlying rules in the ICD-10 Coding Guidelines, Laterality Coding Rules.
Documentation tips (what coders should confirm)
- Verify the clinical documentation supports the use of M54.16
Validate M54.16 Against ICD 10 CM Coding Guidelines
Check this code against official guidelines for conflicts and compliance issues.
Related ICD-10 codes
Frequently Asked Questions
The ICD-10-CM code for lumbar radiculopathy is M54.16, which represents radiculopathy, lumbar region. This code is also commonly referenced as icd 10 code for lumbar radiculopathy, right lumbar radiculopathy icd 10, left lumbar radiculopathy icd 10. Verify this code using the ICD Code Auditor to ensure guideline compliance.
Yes. M54.16 is an active ICD-10-CM diagnosis code used to classify radiculopathy, lumbar region for clinical documentation, reporting, and medical billing purposes.
Use the ICD Code Auditor to check M54.16 against official ICD-10-CM coding guidelines. The tool validates by fiscal year and patient gender to identify potential conflicts.
Documentation should clearly describe the clinical condition represented by M54.16 (Radiculopathy, lumbar region). Include relevant clinical findings, diagnostic test results, provider assessment, and the treatment plan. The diagnosis must be supported by the medical record and not based solely on lab results without clinical interpretation.
Sources
Reviewed by: Certified ICD-10 Coding & Risk Adjustment Specialist
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