Anterior cord syndrome at C6, init

This code signifies a specific type of incomplete spinal cord injury affecting the anterior two-thirds of the C6 level of the cervical spinal cord. It results in motor paralysis, loss of pain and temperature sensation below the injury, but preservation of proprioception, vibration, and touch. This syndrome typically arises from damage to the anterior spinal artery.

Use this code for a patient presenting with new onset anterior cord syndrome specifically localized to the C6 cervical level. Documentation should clearly indicate the neurological deficits consistent with anterior cord syndrome (e.g., motor weakness, loss of pain/temperature, preserved proprioception) and imaging or clinical findings confirming the C6 level involvement. This code is appropriate for the initial evaluation and treatment of the injury.

• Ensure documentation specifies "anterior cord syndrome" and not a general spinal cord injury.
• Verify the exact cervical level (C6 in this case) is clearly documented.
• Confirm this is the "initial encounter" for the injury; subsequent encounters will require a different seventh character.