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 CodesS12.090

S12.090

Billable

Other displaced fracture of first cervical vertebra

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S12.090 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other displaced fracture of first cervical vertebra.

Key Diagnostic Point:

The S12.090 code refers to a specific type of injury characterized by a displaced fracture of the first cervical vertebra (C1), also known as the atlas. This injury typically occurs due to high-impact trauma, such as motor vehicle accidents, falls from significant heights, or sports-related injuries. The atlas supports the skull and allows for the nodding motion of the head. Displacement of this vertebra can lead to instability in the cervical spine and potential spinal cord injury, which may result in neurological deficits. Clinical presentation may include neck pain, limited range of motion, and neurological symptoms such as weakness or numbness in the extremities. Diagnosis is confirmed through imaging studies, primarily X-rays and MRI, to assess the extent of the fracture and any associated soft tissue injuries. Management often involves immobilization, pain management, and in some cases, surgical intervention to stabilize the spine and prevent further complications.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in clinical presentation and severity of injury
  • Need for precise documentation of displacement and associated injuries
  • Potential for neurological involvement requiring additional coding
  • Differentiation from other cervical spine fractures

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the mechanism of injury
  • Failure to specify the type of fracture (displaced vs. non-displaced)
  • Omission of neurological assessment findings
  • Incorrect linkage of diagnosis to treatment procedures

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Thorough documentation of the mechanism of injury, initial assessment findings, and imaging results.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Trauma cases presenting with neck pain after a fall or collision.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all neurological assessments are documented to support coding for potential complications.

Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative reports, including indications for surgery and post-operative assessments.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Surgical intervention for stabilization of the cervical spine following a fracture.

Billing Considerations

Document any intraoperative findings that may affect coding, such as additional injuries or complications.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S12.090 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the fracture type, displacement, and any associated injuries
  • Use additional codes for any neurological deficits or complications

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S12.090 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

22551CPT Code

Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases where surgical intervention is required for stabilization of a displaced C1 fracture.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure, indications, and any complications.

Specialty Considerations

Ensure that the surgical approach and any additional procedures are clearly documented.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of cervical spine injuries, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. S12.090 provides a clear distinction for displaced fractures, which is critical for appropriate management and follow-up.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of cervical spine injuries, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. S12.090 provides a clear distinction for displaced fractures, which is critical for appropriate management and follow-up.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. S12.090 provides a clear distinction for displaced fractures, which is critical for appropriate management and follow-up.

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 significance of coding S12.090 accurately?

Accurate coding of S12.090 is crucial for appropriate treatment planning, reimbursement, and tracking of injury outcomes. It ensures that healthcare providers can effectively manage the patient's care and that the data collected reflects the true nature of the injury.