ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS12.151

S12.151

Billable

Other traumatic nondisplaced spondylolisthesis of second cervical vertebra

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/11/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 S12.151 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other traumatic nondisplaced spondylolisthesis of second cervical vertebra.

Key Diagnostic Point:

S12.151 refers to a specific type of spinal injury characterized by the anterior displacement of the second cervical vertebra (C2) relative to the first cervical vertebra (C1) without any fracture or displacement of the vertebra itself. This condition often results from trauma, such as a fall, motor vehicle accident, or sports-related injury. The mechanism of injury typically involves hyperextension or flexion of the neck, leading to instability at the cervical spine junction. Clinically, patients may present with neck pain, limited range of motion, and neurological symptoms if spinal cord compression occurs. Diagnosis is confirmed through imaging studies, including X-rays, CT scans, or MRI, which help visualize the alignment of the cervical vertebrae and assess for any associated injuries. Management may involve conservative treatment such as immobilization with a cervical collar, physical therapy, or in severe cases, surgical intervention to stabilize the spine. Complications can include chronic pain, neurological deficits, or progression to more severe spinal instability if not properly managed.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires understanding of spinal anatomy and injury mechanisms
  • Differentiation from other types of spondylolisthesis
  • Need for precise documentation of trauma history
  • Potential for associated neurological complications

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the mechanism of injury
  • Failure to specify the type of spondylolisthesis
  • Misclassification of the injury severity
  • Lack of imaging documentation to support diagnosis

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Complete trauma assessment, including mechanism of injury and neurological status.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with neck pain after a fall or collision.

Billing Considerations

Timely imaging and documentation of neurological findings are crucial.

Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative notes and preoperative assessments.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Surgical intervention for stabilization of the cervical spine.

Billing Considerations

Documenting the rationale for surgical intervention and any intraoperative findings.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S12.151 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding injuries, ensuring accurate documentation of the injury's nature, location, and cause

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S12.151 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

63075CPT Code

Laminectomy, cervical, for decompression of spinal cord

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical intervention is required for spinal cord compression due to spondylolisthesis.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and indications.

Specialty Considerations

Ensure alignment with the diagnosis of S12.151 for proper reimbursement.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of injuries like S12.151, improving the granularity of data for treatment outcomes and research.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of injuries like S12.151, improving the granularity of data for treatment outcomes and research.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of injuries like S12.151, improving the granularity of data for treatment outcomes and research.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between S12.151 and S12.15?

S12.151 specifies a traumatic nondisplaced spondylolisthesis of the second cervical vertebra, while S12.15 is a more general code for nondisplaced spondylolisthesis of cervical vertebra, unspecified.