Traumatic rupture of cervical intervertebral disc
ICD-10 S13.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of traumatic rupture of cervical intervertebral disc.
Traumatic rupture of a cervical intervertebral disc occurs when there is a sudden and forceful impact to the cervical spine, leading to the disruption of the disc's integrity. This injury is often associated with high-energy trauma such as motor vehicle accidents, falls from heights, or sports injuries. The cervical intervertebral discs serve as shock absorbers between the vertebrae, and their rupture can lead to significant pain, neurological deficits, and instability in the cervical spine. Symptoms may include neck pain, radiating pain into the arms, numbness, weakness, or even paralysis depending on the severity of the injury and the extent of nerve involvement. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough clinical examination, imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans, and sometimes electromyography (EMG) to assess nerve function. Management may include conservative treatment with pain management and physical therapy, or surgical intervention if there is significant compression of neural structures or instability.
Documentation must include a detailed account of the mechanism of injury, initial assessment findings, and any imaging results.
Patients presenting with acute neck pain after a motor vehicle accident or fall.
Ensure that all neurological assessments are documented, as they are critical for determining the severity of the injury.
Operative reports must detail the surgical approach, findings, and any interventions performed.
Surgical decompression or fusion procedures following a traumatic rupture.
Document any pre-existing conditions that may affect surgical outcomes.
Used when surgical intervention is required for decompression due to a traumatic rupture.
Operative report must detail the procedure and indication for surgery.
Ensure that the surgical approach and findings are clearly documented.
The primary mechanism of injury for S13.0 is typically high-energy trauma, such as motor vehicle accidents, falls, or sports injuries, leading to a rupture of the cervical intervertebral disc.
