Name of the Condition

• Common Name: Cervical Spinal Stenosis
• Medical Term: Osseous Stenosis of Neural Canal of Cervical Region
• ICD Code: M99.31

Summary

Osseous stenosis of the neural canal in the cervical region, commonly known as cervical spinal stenosis, is a condition characterized by the narrowing of the spinal canal in the neck. This narrowing can compress the spinal cord and nerves, leading to various neurological symptoms.

Causes

• Degenerative changes such as osteoarthritis and spondylosis
• Congenital spinal stenosis (a condition present at birth)
• Trauma or injury to the cervical spine
• Tumors or cysts in the cervical region

Risk Factors

• Age: More common in individuals over 50 years
• Previous spinal injuries or surgeries
• Genetic predisposition to spinal abnormalities
• Occupational hazards requiring repetitive neck movements

Symptoms

• Neck pain and stiffness
• Numbness or tingling in the arms, hands, or shoulders
• Weakness in the upper extremities
• Difficulty maintaining balance or walking

Diagnosis

• Medical history review and physical examination
• Imaging tests such as MRI or CT scans to visualize the cervical spine
• X-rays to assess bone structure and alignment

Treatment Options

• Conservative treatments, including physical therapy and pain management with NSAIDs or corticosteroids
• Surgical interventions, such as laminectomy or discectomy, in severe cases to relieve pressure on the spinal cord
• Therapeutic exercises to strengthen the neck and upper body muscles

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Prognosis varies based on severity; many patients find relief with treatment.
• Regular follow-up appointments to monitor symptoms and adjust treatment plans as necessary
• Long-term management may be required to prevent recurrence or worsening of symptoms.

Complications

• Progressive neurological deficits if untreated
• Chronic pain and decreased quality of life
• Permanent nerve damage in severe cases

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Maintaining a healthy weight and active lifestyle to reduce stress on the spine
• Ergonomic adjustments in the workplace to minimize neck strain
• Regular low-impact exercises like swimming or walking to enhance flexibility

When to Seek Professional Help

• Severe neck pain that doesn't improve with rest
• Sudden loss of coordination or balance
• New symptoms of numbness or tingling in the limbs

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)
• North American Spine Society (NASS)
• National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure specificity by using the complete ICD code, M99.31, for accurate classification.
• Verify patient records for precise documentation on the cervical region to avoid miscoding other spinal areas.
• Cross-reference with related codes for any documented complications or concurrent spinal conditions.