Congenital malformations of spine and bony thorax (Q76)

The ICD-10 code section Q76 covers a range of congenital malformations of the spine and bony thorax. These codes are specifically used to identify various birth defects affecting the structure and formation of the spine, ribs, and sternum.

This section includes conditions such as spina bifida occulta (Q76.0), a hidden spinal defect, and Klippel-Feil syndrome (Q76.1), known also as Klippel-Feil anomaly, characterized by abnormal fusion of cervical vertebrae. Congenital spondylolisthesis (Q76.2) relates to vertebral displacement, often described as congenital lumbar spondylolisthesis. Malformations causing abnormal curvature like congenital scoliosis (Q76.3) and various types of congenital kyphosis and lordosis appear under specific subcodes (Q76.41-Q76.429). Other notable entries are cervical rib (Q76.5), often called an accessory rib, and different rib anomalies (Q76.6), along with malformations of the sternum (Q76.7) and general bony thorax defects (Q76.8-Q76.9).

For healthcare professionals and medical coders, these codes provide a precise way to document specific congenital conditions like Klippel-Feil sequence or congenital thoracostenosis. Understanding these synonyms alongside the ICD-10 code aids in accurate diagnosis reporting and clinical communication when working with congenital deformities of the spine and rib cage.

Instructional Notations

Type 1 Excludes

A type 1 excludes note is a pure excludes note. It means "NOT CODED HERE!" An Excludes1 note indicates that the code excluded should never be used at the same time as the code above the Excludes1 note. An Excludes1 is used when two conditions cannot occur together, such as a congenital form versus an acquired form of the same condition.

  • congenital musculoskeletal deformities of spine and chest Q67.5 Q67.8

Clinical Terms

The following clinical terms provide additional context, helping users better understand the clinical background and common associations for each diagnosis listed in this section. Including related terms alongside ICD-10-CM codes supports coders, billers, and healthcare professionals in improving accuracy, enhancing documentation, and facilitating research or patient education.

Cervical Rib

A supernumerary rib developing from an abnormal enlargement of the costal element of the C7 vertebra. This anomaly is found in 1-2% of the population and can put pressure on adjacent structures causing CERVICAL RIB SYNDROME; THORACIC OUTLET SYNDROME; or other conditions.

Cervical Rib Syndrome

A condition associated with compression of the BRACHIAL PLEXUS; SUBCLAVIAN ARTERY; and SUBCLAVIAN VEIN at the thoracic outlet and caused by a complete or incomplete anomalous CERVICAL RIB or fascial band connecting the tip of a cervical rib with the first thoracic rib. Clinical manifestations may include pain in the neck and shoulder which radiates into the upper extremity, PARESIS or PARALYSIS of brachial plexus innervated muscles; sensory loss; PARESTHESIAS; ISCHEMIA; and EDEMA. (Adams et al., Principles of Neurology, 6th ed, p214)

Spina Bifida Occulta

A common congenital midline defect of fusion of the vertebral arch without protrusion of the spinal cord or meninges. The lesion is also covered by skin. L5 and S1 are the most common vertebrae involved. The condition may be associated with an overlying area of hyperpigmented skin, a dermal sinus, or an abnormal patch of hair. The majority of individuals with this malformation are asymptomatic although there is an increased incidence of tethered cord syndrome and lumbar SPONDYLOSIS. (From Joynt, Clinical Neurology, 1992, Ch55, p34)

Spondylosis

A degenerative spinal disease that can involve any part of the VERTEBRA, the INTERVERTEBRAL DISK, and the surrounding soft tissue.