ICD-10 Code M02.08 – Arthropathy following intestinal bypass, vertebrae (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code M02.08 – Arthropathy following intestinal bypass, vertebrae
What it is
M02.08 identifies arthropathy that develops after an intestinal bypass procedure and affects the vertebrae. Use it when the record links the spinal joint problem to the prior bypass surgery.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical findings may include vertebral joint pain, stiffness, or reduced spinal mobility, but you should rely on the provider’s stated diagnosis and anatomic site.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents arthropathy as a consequence of intestinal bypass and specifies the vertebrae as the affected site. It is appropriate for postoperative or sequela documentation when the causal relationship is stated. If the record only says back pain or arthritis without that link, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use it for nonspecific spinal pain, degenerative spine disease, or arthritis without a documented connection to intestinal bypass. Do not assign it if the affected joint site is different or the relationship is not supported in the chart.
Coding tip
Verify both the prior intestinal bypass and the vertebral involvement are explicitly documented before coding M02.08.