Oth disp fx of fourth cervical vertebra, init for clos fx

This code signifies a fracture of the fourth cervical vertebra (C4) that is displaced, meaning the bone fragments are not properly aligned. It specifically refers to a closed fracture, where the skin remains intact, and is used for the initial treatment encounter.

Apply this code when documentation confirms a displaced C4 vertebral fracture without an open wound, and the patient is receiving initial active treatment. This includes emergency room visits, initial hospital admissions, or the first outpatient visit for this specific injury. Supporting documentation would include imaging reports (X-ray, CT, MRI) detailing the fracture location and displacement, and physician notes confirming the closed nature of the injury and the initial encounter.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "displaced" for the C4 fracture; otherwise, an unspecified displacement code may be more appropriate.
• Verify the encounter is truly "initial" for active treatment; subsequent care would use a different seventh character (e.g., D for subsequent, S for sequela).
• Differentiate from S12.391- (nondisplaced) and S12.39XA (unspecified displacement) based on physician documentation.