Unspecified traumatic nondisplaced spondylolisthesis of fourth cervical vertebra
ICD-10 S12.331 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of unspecified traumatic nondisplaced spondylolisthesis of fourth cervical vertebra.
S12.331 refers to a specific type of spinal injury characterized by a nondisplaced spondylolisthesis at the fourth cervical vertebra (C4). This condition occurs when one vertebra slips forward over another due to trauma, but without any displacement of the vertebral body. Common mechanisms of injury include falls, motor vehicle accidents, or sports-related injuries. Patients may present with neck pain, limited range of motion, and neurological symptoms depending on the severity of the injury. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough clinical evaluation, imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI to assess the alignment and integrity of the cervical spine. Management may include conservative treatment like physical therapy and pain management, or surgical intervention if neurological compromise is present. Complications can include chronic pain, instability of the cervical spine, or potential for further neurological injury if not properly managed.
Complete trauma assessment, including mechanism of injury and neurological evaluation.
Patients presenting with neck pain after a fall or motor vehicle accident.
Ensure thorough documentation of all findings and imaging results to support coding.
Detailed operative notes and preoperative assessments.
Surgical intervention for cervical instability or decompression due to spondylolisthesis.
Document any intraoperative findings that may affect coding and billing.
Used in cases where surgical intervention is necessary due to instability or neurological compromise.
Operative report detailing the procedure and indications for surgery.
Ensure that the surgical necessity is well documented to support the procedure.
Displaced spondylolisthesis involves a vertebra that has moved out of its normal position, while nondisplaced means the vertebra remains in alignment despite the injury.
