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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS12.13

S12.13

Billable

Unspecified traumatic spondylolisthesis of second cervical vertebra

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S12.13 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of unspecified traumatic spondylolisthesis of second cervical vertebra.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Unspecified traumatic spondylolisthesis of the second cervical vertebra (C2) refers to a condition where there is a displacement of the second cervical vertebra due to trauma. This injury can occur from various mechanisms, including high-impact sports, motor vehicle accidents, falls, or direct blows to the neck. The spondylolisthesis may lead to spinal instability, nerve compression, and potential neurological deficits. Clinical presentation often includes neck pain, restricted range of motion, and possibly neurological symptoms such as weakness or numbness in the upper extremities. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies, including X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs, to assess vertebral alignment and any associated injuries. Management may range from conservative treatment, such as physical therapy and immobilization, to surgical intervention in cases of significant instability or neurological compromise. Complications can include chronic pain, persistent neurological deficits, and the potential for further spinal degeneration.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in clinical presentation and severity of injury
  • Need for precise documentation of trauma mechanism
  • Differentiation from other cervical spine injuries
  • Potential for associated neurological conditions

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the mechanism of injury
  • Failure to specify the level of vertebral involvement
  • Misclassification of the type of spondylolisthesis
  • Lack of follow-up documentation on treatment outcomes

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Detailed documentation of the mechanism of injury, initial assessment findings, and any immediate interventions performed.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Trauma cases presenting with neck pain after a fall or motor vehicle accident.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all relevant imaging results and neurological assessments are documented to support the diagnosis.

Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive operative reports detailing the surgical approach, findings, and any complications encountered during the procedure.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Surgical management of cervical spondylolisthesis due to trauma requiring stabilization.

Billing Considerations

Document any pre-existing conditions that may affect surgical outcomes and coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S12.13 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring specificity in the documentation of the injury, including the mechanism and any associated conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S12.13 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

63075CPT Code

Laminectomy, cervical, for decompression of spinal cord

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases where surgical intervention is necessary due to neurological compromise from spondylolisthesis.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and indications for surgery.

Specialty Considerations

Ensure that the surgical necessity is well-documented to support the procedure.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding cervical spine injuries, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding cervical spine injuries, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding cervical spine injuries, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking.

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 traumatic and non-traumatic spondylolisthesis?

Traumatic spondylolisthesis occurs due to an external force or injury, while non-traumatic spondylolisthesis is often due to degenerative changes or congenital factors.