Anterior cord syndrome at C1, init

This code signifies anterior cord syndrome resulting from damage to the C1 level of the cervical spinal cord. This syndrome typically presents with bilateral motor paralysis below the level of injury, loss of pain and temperature sensation, but preservation of proprioception, vibration, and touch. It arises from injury to the anterior spinal artery or direct trauma to the anterior portion of the spinal cord.

Use this code for a patient presenting with new onset or acute anterior cord syndrome specifically localized to the C1 spinal cord level. Documentation should clearly indicate the neurological deficits consistent with anterior cord syndrome and specify the C1 level of involvement. This code is appropriate for the initial encounter for this condition.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "anterior cord syndrome" and specifies the C1 level of the cervical spinal cord.
• Do not confuse with central cord syndrome or posterior cord syndrome, which have distinct clinical presentations and corresponding codes.
• The "A" seventh character indicates an initial encounter for active treatment of the injury. Subsequent encounters will require different seventh characters.