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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS12.550

S12.550

Billable

Other traumatic displaced spondylolisthesis of sixth cervical vertebra

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S12.550 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other traumatic displaced spondylolisthesis of sixth cervical vertebra.

Key Diagnostic Point:

S12.550 refers to a specific type of spinal injury characterized by the displacement of the sixth cervical vertebra (C6) due to trauma. Spondylolisthesis occurs when one vertebra slips forward over the one below it, which can lead to spinal instability, nerve compression, and significant pain. This condition can arise from various traumatic events, including motor vehicle accidents, falls, or sports injuries. The mechanism of injury often involves sudden flexion or extension of the neck, which can disrupt the normal alignment of the cervical spine. Clinically, patients may present with neck pain, radiculopathy, or neurological deficits depending on the severity of the displacement and any associated injuries. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to assess the degree of displacement and rule out other cervical spine injuries. Management may include conservative treatment such as physical therapy and pain management, or surgical intervention in cases of severe displacement 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 type of spondylolisthesis
  • Misclassification of the injury severity
  • Lack of imaging documentation to support 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 a fall or motor vehicle accident.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all relevant injuries are documented to support the coding of S12.550.

Surgery

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Surgical intervention for severe spondylolisthesis with neurological compromise.

Billing Considerations

Accurate coding requires clear documentation of the surgical procedure and any complications.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S12.550 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the code accurately reflects the patient's condition and the circumstances of the injury
  • Documentation must support the diagnosis and any associated conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S12.550 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

63075CPT Code

Laminectomy, cervical, for decompression of spinal cord

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases where surgical intervention is required due to severe displacement causing neurological symptoms.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report must detail the procedure and rationale for surgery.

Specialty Considerations

Ensure that the surgical approach and findings are clearly documented.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like spondylolisthesis, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. S12.550 provides specificity that was not available in ICD-9.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like spondylolisthesis, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. S12.550 provides specificity that was not available in ICD-9.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement.

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 S12.550?

S12.550 is primarily caused by traumatic events such as falls, motor vehicle accidents, or sports injuries that lead to the displacement of the sixth cervical vertebra.

How is S12.550 diagnosed?

Diagnosis of S12.550 typically involves imaging studies like X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to assess the degree of vertebral displacement and rule out other injuries.

What are the treatment options for S12.550?

Treatment options for S12.550 may include conservative management such as physical therapy and pain management, or surgical intervention if there is significant displacement or neurological compromise.