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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS12.690

S12.690

Billable

Other displaced fracture of seventh cervical vertebra

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

Code Description

ICD-10 S12.690 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other displaced fracture of seventh cervical vertebra.

Key Diagnostic Point:

The S12.690 code refers to a specific type of injury characterized by a displaced fracture of the seventh cervical vertebra (C7). This injury typically occurs due to trauma, such as falls, motor vehicle accidents, or sports injuries. The C7 vertebra is significant as it serves as a transition point between the cervical and thoracic spine, and its injury can lead to various neurological deficits depending on the severity and displacement of the fracture. Clinical presentation may include neck pain, limited range of motion, and potential neurological symptoms such as weakness or numbness in the upper extremities. Diagnosis is primarily made through imaging studies, including X-rays, CT scans, or MRI, which help assess the fracture's displacement and any associated spinal cord injury. Management may involve conservative treatment, such as immobilization with a cervical collar, or surgical intervention to stabilize the spine and decompress the spinal cord if necessary. Complications can include chronic pain, neurological deficits, and instability of the cervical spine, necessitating careful monitoring and follow-up.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Need for precise documentation of fracture type and displacement
  • Differentiation from other cervical vertebra fractures
  • Potential for associated neurological injuries
  • Variability in treatment approaches based on fracture severity

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture specifics
  • Failure to document imaging results
  • Misclassification of fracture type
  • Lack of clarity on associated neurological symptoms

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Documentation must include details of the mechanism of injury, initial assessment findings, and imaging results.

Common Clinical Scenarios

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

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all neurological assessments are documented to support the diagnosis and any potential complications.

Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Operative reports must detail the surgical approach, findings, and any fixation devices used.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Surgical intervention for unstable fractures or those with neurological compromise.

Billing Considerations

Document the rationale for surgical intervention and any postoperative complications.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S12.690 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the code reflects the specific type of fracture and any associated conditions
  • Use additional codes for complications or associated injuries as necessary

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S12.690 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

22551CPT Code

Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases of significant displacement requiring surgical intervention.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and indications.

Specialty Considerations

Ensure that the surgical approach and any complications 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 cervical spine 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 cervical spine 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 imaging is required to support the diagnosis of S12.690?

Imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs are essential to confirm the diagnosis of a displaced fracture and assess any potential spinal cord involvement.