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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS12.25

S12.25

Billable

Other traumatic spondylolisthesis of third cervical vertebra

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S12.25 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other traumatic spondylolisthesis of third cervical vertebra.

Key Diagnostic Point:

S12.25 refers to a specific type of spinal injury characterized by the displacement of the third cervical vertebra (C3) due to trauma. This condition can arise from various mechanisms of injury, including high-impact sports accidents, falls, or vehicular collisions. The spondylolisthesis may result in spinal instability, nerve compression, and associated neurological deficits. Clinically, patients may present with neck pain, limited range of motion, and symptoms of radiculopathy or myelopathy depending on the severity of the displacement and any associated injuries to the spinal cord or nerve roots. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough clinical examination, imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI to assess the degree of displacement and any potential complications. Management may range from conservative treatment, including physical therapy and pain management, to surgical intervention in cases of significant instability or neurological compromise.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires understanding of specific anatomical terminology
  • Differentiation from other types of spondylolisthesis
  • Need for precise documentation of trauma mechanism
  • Potential for associated injuries complicating coding

Audit Risk Factors

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

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

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

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all relevant injuries are documented to support the coding of S12.25.

Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Operative reports must detail the surgical approach, findings, and any corrective measures taken.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing surgical stabilization for traumatic spondylolisthesis.

Billing Considerations

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

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S12.25 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the code is used only when the spondylolisthesis is due to trauma and that all relevant documentation supports the diagnosis

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S12.25 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 significant spondylolisthesis requiring surgical intervention.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and indications.

Specialty Considerations

Ensure alignment with the diagnosis of traumatic spondylolisthesis.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of traumatic injuries, including spondylolisthesis, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better management of care.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of traumatic injuries, including spondylolisthesis, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better management of care.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of traumatic injuries, including spondylolisthesis, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better management of care.

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 primary cause of S12.25?

S12.25 is primarily caused by traumatic events such as falls, motor vehicle accidents, or sports injuries that lead to the displacement of the third cervical vertebra.