Anesthesia Coding Alert

Question: What is the ICD 9 code for lumbar epidural fibrosis?

Massachusetts Subscriber

Answer: The correct diagnosis code is 349.2 (Other and unspecified disorders of the nervous system; disorders of meninges, not otherwise specified). Other conditions that fall under diagnosis 349.2 include meningeal adhesions, spinal meninges cysts, and acquired meningocele.

Definition: Epidural fibrosis occurs when fibrous tissues replace the normal epidural fat adjacent to the dura in the spinal canal. The fibrous tissue binds the dura and nerve roots to surrounding structures, causing nerve irritation, entrapment, and compression.