M51.26
Other intervertebral disc displacement, lumbar region
Diseases of the musculoskeletal system and connective tissue Billable
Quick Reference
Lumbar disc herniation or bulge with or without radiculopathy
Clinical Information
When to Use This Code
Lumbar disc herniation or bulge with or without radiculopathy
Common Clinical Scenarios
- Herniated lumbar disc with sciatica
- MRI showing disc protrusion
- Epidural steroid injection
- Discectomy surgery planning
Documentation Requirements
- Document MRI findings (level, size, direction of herniation)
- Record presence of radiculopathy symptoms
- Note affected nerve root if identifiable
- Specify if central, foraminal, or lateral herniation
Coding Guidelines
Inclusion Terms
These terms are included in this code:
Lumbar disc herniationLumbar disc protrusionLumbar disc bulge
Exclusion Terms
Do NOT use this code for:
- Disc disorder with myelopathy (M51.0-)
- Disc disorder with radiculopathy (use both M51.26 and M54.16)
Coding Notes
Specify level (L4-L5, L5-S1) in documentation
Code radiculopathy separately with M54.16
Most common at L4-L5 and L5-S1 levels
Related ICD-10 Codes
Consider these related codes based on patient presentation:
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Code
M51.26
Category
Diseases of the musculoskeletal system and connective tissue
Billable Status
Billable
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