ICD-10 Code G95.81 – Conus medullaris syndrome (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code G95.81 – Conus medullaris syndrome
What it is
G95.81 identifies conus medullaris syndrome, a neurologic condition caused by dysfunction of the conus medullaris at the lower end of the spinal cord. It is a serious spinal cord disorder that can affect motor, sensory, and bowel or bladder function.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common findings include saddle anesthesia, leg weakness, reduced reflexes, and bowel or bladder dysfunction. Symptoms may develop suddenly or progress over time depending on the cause.
When to use this code
Use G95.81 when the provider documents conus medullaris syndrome or clearly describes a conus-level spinal cord syndrome. Apply it for confirmed neurologic involvement at the conus, including cases linked to trauma, compression, or other spinal pathology if documented.
Do not infer the diagnosis from nonspecific back pain, radiculopathy, or urinary symptoms alone. If the record only suggests possible cord compression or cauda equina involvement, check documentation before assigning this code.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for isolated lumbar pain, peripheral neuropathy, or cauda equina syndrome unless conus medullaris syndrome is specifically documented. Check documentation when the anatomic level or diagnosis is unclear.
Coding tip
Code G95.81 only when the provider names conus medullaris syndrome or documents a clear equivalent diagnosis.