2025 ICD-10-CM code S12
Fracture of cervical vertebra and other parts of neck. A fracture not indicated as displaced or nondisplaced should be coded to displaced. A fracture not indicated as open or closed should be coded to closed.
Yes, ICD-10-CM codes can be used with seventh character extensions to indicate the encounter type (e.g., initial encounter, subsequent encounter, sequela).
Medical necessity for treatment of a cervical fracture is established by the presence of the fracture itself, which poses a risk to spinal cord stability and neurological function. The specific treatment (e.g., bracing, surgery) will be determined by the severity and type of fracture, and the presence of any neurological compromise.
A fractured cervical vertebra may result in neck pain extending towards the shoulder, pain in the back of the head, numbness, stiffness, tenderness, tingling and weakness in the arms, and nerve compression by the injured vertebra. Providers diagnose the condition on the basis of the patient’s history of recent injury and physical examination of the cervical spine and extremities; assessment of nerve function; and imaging techniques such as X–rays, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging. Treatment options include rest; use of a cervical collar to restrict neck movement; medications such as oral analgesics, nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs, and possible corticosteroid injection for pain relief; physical therapy exercises and modalities to reduce pain and increase strength; and if appropriate, surgery to fuse or fixate the shifted vertebrae.
- Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes (S00-T88)
- Injuries to the neck (S10-S19)
In simple words: A neck fracture is a break in one or more of the 7 bones (vertebrae) in your neck. These bones support your head and protect your spinal cord. A neck fracture can range from a small crack to a major break. It can be very serious if it also damages your nerves or spinal cord. This could lead to paralysis or even death.
Fracture of cervical vertebra and other parts of neck. Includes: fracture of cervical neural arch, fracture of cervical spine, fracture of cervical spinous process, fracture of cervical transverse process, fracture of cervical vertebral arch, fracture of neck. Note: A fracture not indicated as displaced or nondisplaced should be coded to displaced. A fracture not indicated as open or closed should be coded to closed. Code first any associated cervical spinal cord injury (S14.0, S14.1-)
Example 1: A patient falls from a ladder and lands on their head, resulting in a fracture of the C5 vertebra., A football player sustains a neck injury during a tackle, leading to a fracture of the C2 vertebra (axis)., A patient involved in a motor vehicle accident experiences whiplash and is later diagnosed with a fracture of the C7 vertebra.
Documentation should include the type of fracture (e.g., compression, burst, dislocation), the specific vertebra(e) involved (C1-C7), the presence or absence of spinal cord injury, and associated neurological deficits.
- Specialties:Orthopedic surgery, Neurosurgery, Emergency medicine, Physical medicine and rehabilitation
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Emergency Room - Hospital, Office, Outpatient Hospital, Physical Therapist's Office