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Radiology Coding Alert

READER QUESTIONS:

Make VCF Coding a Snap

Published on Sun May 13, 2007

Question: What is non-traumatic VCF? I need to find a diagnosis code for it.


New York Subscriber


Answer: VCF is a vertebral body compression fracture (also called a vertebral body collapse) that occurs when the vertebral body cannot support the upper body's weight (non-traumatic) or following force (such as a fall).

The appropriate diagnosis code for a non-traumatic vertebral compression fracture is 733.13 (Pathologic fracture of vertebrae).

VCF is more common in the elderly population, particularly among patients with osteoporosis (733.00-733.09). In some cases, a VCF causes back pain, although other patients may not feel any pain. Physicians diagnose VCF using x-rays and physical exam.
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