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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS12.53

S12.53

Billable

Unspecified traumatic spondylolisthesis of sixth cervical vertebra

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S12.53 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of unspecified traumatic spondylolisthesis of sixth cervical vertebra.

Key Diagnostic Point:

S12.53 refers to an unspecified traumatic spondylolisthesis of the sixth cervical vertebra, which is a condition characterized by the anterior displacement of one vertebra over another due to trauma. This condition can occur as a result of high-impact injuries, such as those sustained in motor vehicle accidents, falls, or sports-related injuries. The sixth cervical vertebra (C6) is particularly vulnerable due to its anatomical position and the mobility of the cervical spine. Symptoms may include neck pain, neurological deficits, and restricted range of motion. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough clinical evaluation, imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI to assess the degree of displacement and any associated injuries to the spinal cord or surrounding structures. Management may range from conservative treatment, including physical therapy and pain management, to surgical intervention in cases of significant instability or neurological compromise. 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

  • Variability in clinical presentation and severity of injury
  • Need for precise documentation of trauma mechanism
  • Differentiation from other cervical spine injuries
  • Potential for associated neurological injuries

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the mechanism of injury
  • Failure to specify the level of the cervical spine affected
  • Misclassification of the type of spondylolisthesis
  • Lack of supporting imaging documentation

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 after a fall or motor vehicle accident with neck pain and neurological symptoms.

Billing Considerations

Timely documentation is crucial for accurate coding and treatment planning.

Surgery

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Surgical intervention for unstable spondylolisthesis following trauma.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that the surgical documentation correlates with the diagnosis for accurate coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S12.53 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the code reflects the specific nature of the injury and any associated conditions
  • Documentation must support the diagnosis and treatment plan

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S12.53 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

63075CPT Code

Laminectomy, cervical, single segment

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases where surgical intervention is required for decompression.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and indications.

Specialty Considerations

Ensure that the procedure is linked to the diagnosis of 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, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of traumatic injuries, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes.

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 specifying the level of spondylolisthesis?

Specifying the level of spondylolisthesis is crucial for accurate coding, treatment planning, and understanding the potential impact on neurological function.