Collapsed vertebra, NEC, cervical region, sqla

This code describes a vertebral collapse in the cervical spine that is a long-term consequence or late effect of a previous fracture, and not due to other specified causes. It indicates a chronic or residual condition resulting from an earlier traumatic event to the cervical vertebrae.

Use this code when documentation clearly states a collapsed cervical vertebra as a sequela of a prior fracture, and the acute fracture has healed. This applies to patients presenting with ongoing symptoms or structural changes directly attributable to the old fracture. Documentation should specify "sequela," "late effect," or similar language linking the collapse to a past fracture.

• Always assign an external cause code (e.g., V00-Y99) to describe the original injury, if known and relevant.
• Do not use this code for acute fractures; instead, use an acute fracture code from the S12 category.
• Ensure documentation specifies "cervical region" and "sequela of fracture" to support this specific code.