2025 ICD-10-CM code S12.3
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes - Injuries to the neck 19 Feed
Fracture of fourth cervical vertebra.
Medical necessity is established by the presence of a fracture confirmed by imaging studies and the need for treatment to stabilize the fracture, prevent further injury, and address associated neurological deficits.
Diagnosis is typically made through physical examination, neurological assessment, and imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs. Treatment depends on the severity and type of fracture, ranging from immobilization with a cervical collar to surgical intervention for unstable fractures.
In simple words: A fourth cervical vertebra fracture is a break in the fourth bone (C4) in the neck.
Fracture of fourth cervical vertebra. This code encompasses various types of fractures of the C4 vertebra, including displaced, nondisplaced, open, and closed fractures.Further specification is achieved with the use of 7th character extensions.
Example 1: A patient presents to the emergency department after a motor vehicle accident with neck pain and limited range of motion. Imaging reveals a displaced fracture of the fourth cervical vertebra., A patient falls from a ladder and experiences immediate neck pain.A CT scan confirms a nondisplaced fracture of the C4 vertebra., A football player sustains a neck injury during a game.MRI reveals a fracture of the fourth cervical vertebra with spinal cord involvement.
Documentation should include details of the injury mechanism, physical examination findings (e.g., pain, tenderness, neurological deficits), imaging results specifying the location and type of fracture (displaced/nondisplaced, open/closed), and associated injuries.
** For accurate coding, complete documentation of the fracture is essential, including details of displacement, type (open vs. closed), and any associated injuries. The 7th character extension provides further specificity regarding the encounter and healing status.
- Specialties:Orthopedic surgery, Neurosurgery, Emergency Medicine
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Emergency Room - Hospital, Office