Collapsed vertebra, NEC, cervicothoracic region, sqla

This code signifies a vertebral collapse in the cervicothoracic region (neck and upper back) that is a long-term consequence or late effect of a previous fracture. It indicates that the current collapsed state is not an acute fracture but rather a residual complication from an earlier traumatic event.

Use this code for patients presenting with symptoms or findings related to a collapsed vertebra in the cervicothoracic spine, where medical records clearly indicate that the collapse is a sequela of a prior fracture, not a new or acute injury. Documentation should specify the cervicothoracic region and confirm the collapsed nature of the vertebra.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states the collapsed vertebra is a "sequela of fracture" and not an acute fracture or collapse due to other etiologies (e.g., osteoporosis, tumor).
• Verify the specific vertebral region is cervicothoracic; codes exist for other spinal regions.
• The "S" seventh character indicates sequela, meaning the initial injury has healed, but residual effects persist.