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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS12.190

S12.190

Billable

Other displaced fracture of second cervical vertebra

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S12.190 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other displaced fracture of second cervical vertebra.

Key Diagnostic Point:

The S12.190 code refers to a specific type of injury characterized by a displaced fracture of the second cervical vertebra (C2), also known as the axis. This injury typically occurs due to high-impact trauma, such as motor vehicle accidents, falls from significant heights, or sports-related injuries. The C2 vertebra is crucial for the rotation and stability of the head and neck, making fractures in this area particularly concerning. Displacement of the fracture can lead to spinal cord injury, resulting in neurological deficits. Clinical evaluation often includes a thorough physical examination, imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to assess the extent of the fracture and any associated injuries. Management may involve conservative treatment with immobilization or surgical intervention, depending on the severity and displacement of the fracture. Complications can include chronic pain, instability, and neurological impairment, necessitating careful monitoring and follow-up care.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in fracture presentation and severity
  • Need for precise imaging interpretation
  • Potential for associated neurological injuries
  • Differentiation from similar cervical spine injuries

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the mechanism of injury
  • Failure to specify the type of fracture (displaced vs. non-displaced)
  • Misinterpretation of imaging results
  • Inconsistent coding of associated neurological conditions

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Documentation must include a detailed account of the mechanism of injury, initial assessment findings, and imaging results.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with neck pain after trauma, altered mental status, or neurological deficits.

Billing Considerations

Timely documentation is critical for accurate coding and management of potential complications.

Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Operative reports must detail the surgical approach, findings, and any complications encountered during the procedure.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Surgical intervention for stabilization of the C2 fracture, including fusion procedures.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all surgical codes are linked to the appropriate diagnosis for compliance.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S12.190 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the fracture type, location, and any associated injuries
  • The mechanism of injury should be clearly documented to support the diagnosis

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S12.190 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 a displaced C2 fracture.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and indications for surgery.

Specialty Considerations

Ensure that the surgical procedure is linked to the correct diagnosis code.

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 diagnosis and treatment tracking.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of cervical spine injuries, improving the accuracy of diagnosis and treatment tracking.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of cervical spine injuries, improving the accuracy of diagnosis 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 significance of coding S12.190 accurately?

Accurate coding of S12.190 is crucial for appropriate treatment planning, reimbursement, and tracking of patient outcomes. It ensures that the severity of the injury is recognized and managed effectively.