Nondisp lateral mass fx first cervcal vertebra, sequela

This code signifies a healed or residual effect of a fracture involving the lateral mass of the first cervical vertebra (atlas) that was initially nondisplaced. It indicates that the acute injury has resolved, but there are lasting consequences or conditions directly attributable to the original fracture.

Use this code when documenting a patient presenting with a long-term complication or sequela directly resulting from a previously sustained, nondisplaced lateral mass fracture of the C1 vertebra. Documentation should clearly state the link between the current condition and the past fracture, often indicating a chronic issue or a follow-up for a resolved injury with residual effects.

• Ensure documentation explicitly links the current condition to the past C1 lateral mass fracture.
• Do not use for acute or subacute fractures; those require codes from the initial encounter or subsequent encounter categories.
• Consider sequencing this code after the primary diagnosis if the sequela is not the main reason for the encounter.