Unspecified disp fx of first cervical vertebra, sequela

This code signifies a long-term complication or late effect resulting from an unspecified displaced fracture of the atlas (first cervical vertebra). It indicates that the initial injury has healed, but residual issues or conditions directly attributable to that fracture persist.

Use this code when documenting a patient presenting with a sequela (e.g., chronic pain, neurological deficit, instability) directly linked to a previously sustained and healed displaced C1 fracture. Documentation must clearly state the connection between the current condition and the old C1 fracture, and that the fracture itself is no longer acute.

• Always sequence the sequela code first, followed by codes for the specific residual condition(s) (e.g., chronic pain, myelopathy).
• Ensure documentation explicitly states "sequela," "late effect," or similar terminology linking the current condition to the past C1 fracture.
• Do not use this code for acute or active C1 fractures; those require codes from the acute fracture series.