Subluxation and dislocation of C6/C7 cervical vertebrae
ICD-10 S13.17 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of subluxation and dislocation of c6/c7 cervical vertebrae.
Subluxation and dislocation of the C6/C7 cervical vertebrae refers to a condition where there is a partial or complete displacement of the cervical vertebrae at the sixth and seventh levels of the spine. This injury can occur due to trauma, such as a fall, motor vehicle accident, or sports-related injury. The cervical spine is crucial for protecting the spinal cord and supporting the head, and injuries at this level can lead to significant neurological deficits. Symptoms may include neck pain, limited range of motion, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms and hands, and in severe cases, paralysis. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough clinical examination, imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI to assess the extent of the injury and any associated spinal cord involvement. Management may include conservative treatment like immobilization and physical therapy or surgical intervention to realign the vertebrae and stabilize the spine. Complications can include chronic pain, neurological deficits, or recurrent dislocation if not properly managed.
Documentation must include a detailed account of the mechanism of injury, initial assessment findings, and any imaging results.
Trauma patients presenting with neck pain after a fall or collision.
Ensure that all neurological assessments are documented to support the diagnosis and any potential interventions.
Operative reports must detail the surgical approach, findings, and any corrective measures taken.
Patients requiring surgical intervention for stabilization of the cervical spine.
Accurate coding of surgical procedures performed in conjunction with the dislocation is critical.
Performed in cases of severe spinal cord compression due to dislocation.
Operative report must detail the procedure and indications.
Neurosurgery or orthopedic surgery documentation must be thorough.
Subluxation refers to a partial dislocation where the joint surfaces are misaligned but still in contact, while dislocation indicates a complete separation of the joint surfaces.
