Anterior displaced Type II dens fracture, sequela

This code signifies a long-term complication or late effect stemming from a previously sustained anteriorly displaced Type II dens fracture. The Type II dens fracture involves the base of the odontoid process, often leading to instability. "Sequela" indicates that the acute injury has healed, but residual problems or conditions persist as a direct result of that fracture.

Use this code when documenting a patient presenting with ongoing issues directly attributable to a healed anteriorly displaced Type II dens fracture. This applies to scenarios such as chronic pain, instability, nonunion, malunion, or neurological deficits that are a direct consequence of the original injury. Documentation should clearly link the current condition to the past fracture.

• Always sequence the sequela code first, followed by codes for the specific residual condition(s) (e.g., chronic pain, myelopathy).
• Ensure documentation explicitly states the condition is a "sequela," "late effect," or "due to old injury" of the dens fracture.
• Distinguish from acute fractures (S12.110A-D) or subsequent encounters for routine healing (S12.110G-K) where the injury is still actively being treated.