Injury of nerve root of cervical spine, initial encounter

This code signifies damage to a nerve root originating from the cervical (neck) region of the spine. This injury can result in symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the neck, shoulders, arms, or hands, depending on the specific nerve root affected.

Apply this code for the initial encounter of a patient presenting with a newly diagnosed or acutely sustained injury to a cervical nerve root. This includes cases resulting from trauma, disc herniation, or other acute compressive events.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "initial encounter" for the treatment of the injury.
• Distinguish from nerve root compression due to chronic degenerative conditions, which may require different codes.
• Always code the underlying cause of the nerve root injury if known and documented (e.g., cervical disc disorder).