Unspecified displaced fracture of fifth cervical vertebra
ICD-10 S12.400 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of unspecified displaced fracture of fifth cervical vertebra.
The S12.400 code refers to an unspecified displaced fracture of the fifth cervical vertebra (C5). This type of injury typically occurs due to trauma, such as motor vehicle accidents, falls, or sports injuries. Displaced fractures indicate that the bone fragments have moved out of their normal alignment, which can lead to potential complications such as spinal cord injury, nerve damage, and instability of the cervical spine. Clinical evaluation often includes a thorough history and physical examination, followed by imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to assess the fracture's extent and any associated injuries. Management may involve conservative treatment, such as immobilization with a cervical collar, or surgical intervention to stabilize the spine and decompress any affected neural structures. The prognosis depends on the severity of the fracture and the presence of any neurological deficits.
Documentation must include a detailed account of the mechanism of injury, initial assessment findings, and imaging results.
Patients presenting with neck pain after a fall or motor vehicle accident, requiring immediate imaging and assessment.
Timely documentation is critical for trauma cases; ensure all findings are recorded promptly.
Operative reports must detail the surgical approach, findings, and any fixation devices used.
Surgical intervention for stabilization of a displaced C5 fracture with or without decompression.
Ensure that the surgical procedure is clearly linked to the diagnosis for accurate billing.
Used in cases where surgical intervention is required for a displaced C5 fracture.
Operative report detailing the procedure, indications, and findings.
Ensure that the procedure is linked to the diagnosis of the fracture.
Specifying 'displaced' indicates that the fracture has resulted in misalignment of the vertebra, which can lead to more severe complications, including potential spinal cord injury. Accurate coding is essential for appropriate treatment planning and resource allocation.
