Dislocation of C5/C6 cervical vertebrae
ICD-10 S13.161 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of dislocation of c5/c6 cervical vertebrae.
Dislocation of the C5/C6 cervical vertebrae refers to the misalignment of the fifth and sixth cervical vertebrae in the neck, which can occur due to trauma, such as a fall, motor vehicle accident, or sports injury. This condition can lead to significant neurological deficits if the spinal cord is compromised. The dislocation may be anterior, posterior, or lateral, and can result in varying degrees of instability in the cervical spine. Symptoms often include severe neck pain, limited range of motion, and neurological symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or legs. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough clinical examination and imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRI, to assess the extent of the dislocation and any associated injuries. Management may include immobilization, pain management, and in some cases, surgical intervention to realign the vertebrae and stabilize the spine.
Documentation must include a detailed account of the mechanism of injury, neurological assessment, and imaging results.
Trauma cases from falls, sports injuries, or vehicular accidents.
Ensure that all neurological deficits are documented, as they can impact treatment and coding.
Operative reports must detail the surgical approach, findings, and any stabilization techniques used.
Surgical intervention for dislocation reduction and stabilization.
Document any complications or additional procedures performed during surgery.
Used in cases where surgical intervention is required for dislocation.
Operative report detailing the procedure and findings.
Ensure that the surgical approach and any complications are documented.
X-rays are typically the first step, followed by MRI or CT scans to assess soft tissue and neurological involvement.
