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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS12.34

S12.34

Billable

Type III traumatic spondylolisthesis of fourth cervical vertebra

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S12.34 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of type iii traumatic spondylolisthesis of fourth cervical vertebra.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Type III traumatic spondylolisthesis of the fourth cervical vertebra refers to a specific type of spinal injury characterized by the anterior displacement of the fourth cervical vertebra (C4) due to trauma. This condition typically arises from high-energy impacts, such as those sustained in motor vehicle accidents, falls from heights, or sports-related injuries. The Type III classification indicates a complete disruption of the spinal column, often associated with significant neurological compromise. Patients may present with symptoms such as neck pain, limited range of motion, and neurological deficits, including weakness or numbness in the upper extremities. Diagnosis is confirmed through imaging studies, including X-rays, CT scans, or MRI, which reveal the degree of vertebral displacement and any associated spinal cord injury. Management may involve conservative treatment, such as immobilization and physical therapy, or surgical intervention to stabilize the spine and decompress the spinal cord if necessary. Complications can include chronic pain, persistent neurological deficits, and the potential for further spinal instability.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires understanding of specific injury types and classifications
  • Involves knowledge of cervical spine anatomy and pathology
  • Potential for associated neurological conditions complicating coding
  • Need for precise documentation of mechanism of injury

Audit Risk Factors

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

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with acute neck pain following trauma, with or without neurological symptoms.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all relevant imaging studies are documented and correlate with the diagnosis.

Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Operative reports must detail the surgical approach, findings, and any interventions performed.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Surgical stabilization of the cervical spine following traumatic spondylolisthesis.

Billing Considerations

Accurate coding of surgical procedures must align with the diagnosis of spondylolisthesis.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S12.34 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring specificity in the documentation of the injury type and mechanism
  • Reference the guidelines for coding injuries and external causes

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S12.34 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

22551CPT Code

Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion

Clinical Scenario

Used in surgical management of cervical spondylolisthesis.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and indication for surgery.

Specialty Considerations

Ensure alignment of surgical codes 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 greater specificity in coding injuries, including traumatic spondylolisthesis. This specificity aids in better tracking of injury patterns and outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding injuries, including traumatic spondylolisthesis. This specificity aids in better tracking of injury patterns and outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding injuries, including traumatic spondylolisthesis. This specificity aids in better tracking of injury patterns and outcomes.

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 dysplastic type, Type II is isthmic, and Type III is traumatic, indicating the mechanism of injury and the stability of the vertebrae.