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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS12.14

S12.14

Billable

Type III traumatic spondylolisthesis of second cervical vertebra

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S12.14 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of type iii traumatic spondylolisthesis of second cervical vertebra.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Type III traumatic spondylolisthesis of the second cervical vertebra (C2) refers to a specific type of spinal injury characterized by the anterior displacement of the C2 vertebra due to trauma. This condition is often the result of high-energy impacts, such as those sustained in motor vehicle accidents, falls from heights, or sports-related injuries. The mechanism of injury typically involves flexion-distraction forces that lead to instability and displacement of the vertebra. Clinically, patients may present with neck pain, neurological deficits, or signs of spinal cord injury, necessitating immediate evaluation. Diagnostic imaging, including X-rays, CT scans, or MRI, is crucial for assessing the degree of displacement and any associated injuries to the spinal cord or surrounding structures. Management may involve conservative treatment, such as immobilization, or surgical intervention to stabilize the spine and prevent further neurological compromise. Complications can include chronic pain, neurological deficits, or the development of post-traumatic kyphosis if not adequately addressed.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Specificity of the injury type (Type III)
  • Need for detailed documentation of mechanism of injury
  • Potential for associated neurological injuries
  • Variability in treatment approaches

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the mechanism of injury
  • Failure to document neurological assessments
  • Misclassification of the type of spondylolisthesis
  • Lack of imaging reports to support the diagnosis

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Thorough documentation of the patient's presentation, mechanism of injury, and initial assessments.

Common Clinical Scenarios

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

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all neurological assessments are documented, as they are critical for coding and management.

Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative reports and pre-operative assessments are essential.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing surgical stabilization of the cervical spine due to traumatic spondylolisthesis.

Billing Considerations

Document the surgical approach and any complications encountered during the procedure.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S12.14 When
  • Follow ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding injuries, ensuring specificity in the type of spondylolisthesis and documenting the mechanism of injury

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S12.14 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

22551CPT Code

Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases of traumatic spondylolisthesis requiring surgical intervention.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and indications.

Specialty Considerations

Ensure that the surgical approach and any complications are documented.

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 plans.

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 plans.

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 plans.

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 Type I, II, and III spondylolisthesis?

Type I is a fracture without displacement, Type II involves displacement without instability, and Type III indicates significant displacement with potential instability.