Collapsed vert, NEC, cervicothor rgn, 7thG

This code signifies a vertebral compression fracture in the cervicothoracic spinal region that is not due to trauma, osteoporosis, or pathological causes, and is currently experiencing delayed healing. It indicates that the patient is receiving ongoing care for the fracture, which has not yet fully consolidated within the expected timeframe.

Apply this code when documentation specifies a collapsed vertebra in the C7-T1 region, not attributed to a specific underlying condition (e.g., osteoporosis, malignancy, or acute trauma), and the patient is in a subsequent phase of care for a fracture that is healing slower than anticipated. This code is appropriate for follow-up visits where delayed union of the fracture is the primary focus of the encounter.

• Ensure documentation clearly states "delayed healing" or "delayed union" of the fracture.
• Verify the fracture location is specifically cervicothoracic (C7-T1).
• Do not use this code if the collapse is due to osteoporosis (M80.-), pathological fracture (M84.5-), or acute traumatic fracture (S12.-, S22.-).