Oth traum displ spondylolysis of fifth cervcal vert, init

This code signifies a traumatic forward slippage of the C5 vertebra over C6, specifically due to a fracture, where the vertebral body is no longer in its normal anatomical alignment. This displacement is not congenital or degenerative, but rather a direct result of an injury, and the skin overlying the fracture is intact.

Apply this code for patients presenting with a newly diagnosed, acute traumatic spondylolisthesis of the C5 vertebra that is displaced and closed. Documentation must clearly indicate the traumatic etiology, the specific cervical level (C5), the presence of displacement, and that it is a closed fracture being treated for the first time.

• Ensure documentation specifies "displaced" and "traumatic" to differentiate from non-displaced or degenerative forms.
• The "A" suffix indicates an initial encounter; use subsequent encounter codes (D, G, K, P, S) for follow-up care.
• Always code any associated spinal cord injury or neurological deficits separately.