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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS12.230

S12.230

Billable

Unspecified traumatic displaced spondylolisthesis of third cervical vertebra

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S12.230 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of unspecified traumatic displaced spondylolisthesis of third cervical vertebra.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Unspecified traumatic displaced spondylolisthesis of the third cervical vertebra (C3) refers to a condition where there is a forward displacement of the C3 vertebra due to trauma, resulting in instability and potential neurological compromise. This injury often occurs in high-impact situations such as motor vehicle accidents, falls from heights, or sports-related injuries. The displacement can lead to compression of the spinal cord or nerve roots, causing symptoms such as neck pain, weakness, numbness, or even paralysis depending on the severity of the injury. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to assess the degree of displacement and any associated injuries to the spinal cord or surrounding structures. Management may include conservative treatment with immobilization and pain management or surgical intervention to stabilize the spine and relieve pressure on neural structures. Complications can include chronic pain, neurological deficits, and the potential for further spinal instability if not properly managed.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in clinical presentation and severity of injury
  • Need for precise imaging interpretation
  • Potential for associated injuries complicating diagnosis
  • Documentation requirements for trauma cases

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the mechanism of injury
  • Failure to specify the type of spondylolisthesis
  • Lack of imaging results in the medical record
  • Misinterpretation of the severity of the injury

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 performed.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Trauma patients presenting with neck pain after a fall or motor vehicle accident.

Billing Considerations

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

Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Operative reports must detail the surgical approach, findings, and any stabilization techniques used.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients requiring surgical intervention for stabilization of the cervical spine.

Billing Considerations

Document any pre-existing conditions that may affect surgical outcomes.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S12.230 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the code accurately reflects the clinical documentation and that all relevant details of the injury are captured

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S12.230 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

22551CPT Code

Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases where surgical intervention is required for stabilization of the cervical spine.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report must detail the procedure performed and the rationale for surgery.

Specialty Considerations

Ensure that the surgical approach aligns with the diagnosis and that all pre-operative assessments are documented.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of injuries, including spondylolisthesis, which enhances the ability to track and manage these conditions effectively.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of injuries, including spondylolisthesis, which enhances the ability to track and manage these conditions effectively.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of injuries, including spondylolisthesis, which enhances the ability to track and manage these conditions effectively.

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 traumatic and non-traumatic spondylolisthesis?

Traumatic spondylolisthesis occurs due to an injury or trauma to the spine, while non-traumatic spondylolisthesis can result from degenerative changes, congenital defects, or other non-injury related factors.