2025 ICD-10-CM code S33
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Deletion Date: N/A Injury - Injuries to the abdomen, lower back, lumbar spine, pelvis and external genitals Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes (S00-T88) Feed
Dislocation and sprain of joints and ligaments of the lumbar spine and pelvis.
Modifiers may be applicable depending on the circumstances of the service provided. Consult the current CPT and HCPCS modifier guidelines for appropriate use.
Medical necessity for treatment of a dislocation and sprain of the lumbar spine and pelvis is established based on the presence of symptoms such as pain, limited range of motion, and neurological deficits.Imaging studies are typically required to determine the extent of injury and to guide treatment decisions. Physical therapy is often medically necessary to improve strength, range of motion, and function. Surgical intervention may be necessary in cases of significant instability or nerve compression.
Diagnosis and treatment of lumbar spine and pelvic injuries are the responsibility of physicians specializing in orthopedics, physiatry, or emergency medicine. The clinical responsibility includes obtaining a thorough patient history, performing a comprehensive physical exam, ordering and interpreting imaging studies (X-rays, MRI, CT), performing electromyography and nerve conduction studies if nerve damage is suspected, and developing a comprehensive treatment plan which may include medication management, physical therapy referral, bracing, and surgical intervention if necessary.
- Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes (S00-T88)
- Injuries to the abdomen, lower back, lumbar spine, pelvis and external genitals (S30-S39)
In simple words: This code describes a dislocation or sprain of the joints and ligaments in your lower back and pelvis.It's an injury that causes the bones to move out of place and the supporting tissues to stretch or tear. This can happen due to accidents, falls, or sudden movements. It can be painful and cause weakness, numbness, and limited movement. Doctors diagnose it using exams and imaging tests (X-rays, MRI, CT scans), and treatment may include rest, ice, medication, physical therapy, and sometimes surgery.
Dislocation and sprain of the joints and ligaments of the lumbar spine and pelvis refers to the displacement of bones in the lumbar region and hip bone from their normal positions, along with stretching or tearing of the ligaments in these areas.This injury can result from motor vehicle accidents, falls, or other trauma, such as sudden twisting or bending.It may also be caused by insufficient stretching and strengthening of back muscles before exercise or strenuous activities like weightlifting.The condition may present with low back pain, tenderness, bruising, weakness, decreased range of motion, numbness, and potential nerve root damage. Diagnosis involves patient history, physical examination, and imaging studies (X-rays, MRI, CT scans) to assess the extent of damage. Electromyography and nerve conduction studies may be used to evaluate nerve damage. Treatment options include rest, cold therapy, bracing, analgesics, muscle relaxants, NSAIDs, physical therapy, and potentially surgery to relocate dislocated joints.
Example 1: A patient presents to the emergency department after a motor vehicle accident with low back pain and limited range of motion.Imaging reveals a dislocation of the L5-S1 facet joint and a sprain of the surrounding ligaments. , An athlete sustains a lumbar spine injury during a weightlifting competition.Physical exam shows tenderness and pain with palpation of the sacroiliac joint.MRI confirms a sprain of the sacroiliac ligaments., A patient falls from a height and presents with severe lower back pain and radiating pain into the leg. Examination reveals tenderness to palpation in the lumbar spine, limited range of motion, and neurological deficit. Imaging demonstrates a fracture-dislocation of a lumbar vertebra with nerve root compression.
Complete documentation should include a detailed history of the injury mechanism, physical examination findings (including range of motion, neurological examination), imaging reports (X-rays, MRI, CT scans), and electromyography/nerve conduction studies if performed.Treatment plan, including medications prescribed, physical therapy recommendations, and surgical procedures, should be clearly documented.
** This code encompasses a wide range of injuries.Accurate coding requires detailed clinical documentation to support the diagnosis and treatment provided.
- Payment Status: Active
- Modifier TC rule: Not applicable.This is a diagnosis code.
- Specialties:Orthopedics, physiatry, emergency medicine, neurology
- Place of Service:Emergency Room - Hospital, Office, Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center