2025 ICD-10-CM code S12.601K

Nondisplaced fracture of the seventh cervical vertebra, subsequent encounter for fracture with nonunion.

Use secondary codes from Chapter 20 (External causes of morbidity) to indicate the cause of the initial injury. Use additional code Z18.- to identify any retained foreign body, if applicable.

Medical necessity for further treatment is established by the presence of nonunion, which can cause ongoing pain, instability, and potential neurological complications.

Providers diagnose the condition based on patient history, physical examination, nerve function assessment, and imaging (X-rays, CT, MRI). Treatment includes cervical collars, traction, pain medication (analgesics, NSAIDs, corticosteroids), and potentially surgery if there is spinal cord pressure.

In simple words: A patient had a broken neck at the C7 vertebra where the bones did not shift out of place. Upon re-evaluation, the doctor found that the fracture hasn't healed correctly.

A break in the seventh cervical vertebra (C7) that has not moved out of its normal alignment, and during a subsequent encounter, exhibits failure of the fractured bone to heal properly, a condition known as nonunion.

Example 1: A patient initially presented with a nondisplaced fracture of the C7 vertebra. They return for a follow-up appointment and imaging reveals the fracture has not united and is now considered a nonunion., A patient who suffered a nondisplaced C7 fracture several weeks prior is experiencing ongoing pain and limited neck mobility. Examination and imaging confirm nonunion of the fracture., A patient previously diagnosed with a nondisplaced fracture of the C7 vertebra presents with new neurological symptoms.Imaging reveals the fracture has failed to heal (nonunion) and may be impinging on the spinal cord.

Documentation should include details of the initial injury, subsequent examinations, imaging results confirming nonunion of the C7 fracture, neurological assessments, and treatment plan.

  • Specialties:Orthopedic Surgery, Neurosurgery, Emergency Medicine, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
  • Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, On Campus-Outpatient Hospital, Emergency Room - Hospital, Physician's Office, Outpatient Rehabilitation Facility
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