Oth traum nondisp spondylolysis of third cervcal vert, init

This code signifies a traumatic injury to the third cervical vertebra (C3) where a stress fracture or defect in the pars interarticularis causes one vertebral body to slip forward over the one below it, but the displacement is not significant. This specific code indicates that the fracture is closed (skin intact) and it is the patient's first time receiving active treatment for this injury.

Use this code for a patient presenting with a newly diagnosed, traumatic, nondisplaced spondylolisthesis affecting the C3 vertebra. Documentation must clearly state the traumatic etiology, the specific cervical level (C3), the absence of significant displacement, and confirm that the fracture is closed. This code is appropriate for the initial phase of treatment, such as emergency room visits or initial hospitalization.

• Confirm the cervical level is specifically C3; other cervical levels have different codes.
• Verify "nondisplaced" and "closed fracture" are explicitly documented.
• Ensure the encounter is truly "initial" for active treatment; subsequent encounters will require different seventh characters.