ICD-10 Code G83.4 – Cauda Equina Syndrome (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code G83.4 – Cauda equina syndrome
What it is
G83.4 identifies cauda equina syndrome, a serious neurologic condition caused by dysfunction of the nerve roots at the lower end of the spinal cord. It usually reflects compression or injury affecting bladder, bowel, leg, or saddle sensation.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include severe low back pain, leg weakness, saddle anesthesia, and reduced reflexes. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation, especially when notes describe urinary retention, bowel dysfunction, or bilateral radicular symptoms.
When to use this code
Use G83.4 when the provider documents cauda equina syndrome as the diagnosis, whether acute or chronic, and the record supports nerve-root involvement. It is appropriate when the chart clearly links the neurologic deficits to cauda equina compression or injury. Check documentation if the note only mentions back pain or sciatica without this syndrome.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for uncomplicated lumbar radiculopathy, isolated spinal stenosis, or nonspecific back pain. If the provider documents a different spinal cord or nerve-root disorder, code that condition instead.
Coding tip
Confirm that the documentation names cauda equina syndrome explicitly; if not, query for clarification before assigning G83.4.