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

This code describes a fracture of the fifth cervical vertebra (C5) that is not in its anatomical alignment (displaced) and is not specified as a burst, comminuted, or other specific type of fracture. It indicates the initial treatment encounter for a fracture where the skin remains intact over the injury site.

Use this code for a patient presenting for the first time with a C5 fracture that is documented as displaced and closed. This applies to acute injuries where the patient is undergoing initial evaluation and management, such as in an emergency department or initial orthopedic consultation. Documentation should clearly state "displaced C5 fracture" and "closed."

• Ensure documentation specifies "displaced" and "closed" for accurate code assignment.
• Verify the specific cervical vertebral level (C5) to differentiate from fractures of other cervical vertebrae.
• This "A" initial encounter character is only used for the period of active treatment; subsequent care would use "D" or "S" suffixes.