Unspecified injury of right vertebral artery, sequela

This code signifies a long-term or late effect resulting from an unspecified injury to the right vertebral artery. This could encompass chronic neurological deficits, persistent pain, or other complications directly attributable to the initial arterial trauma, even if the acute injury has resolved.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a current condition or symptom that is a residual effect of a past, unspecified injury to the right vertebral artery. This typically applies when the acute phase of the injury has passed, and the patient is being treated for the lasting consequences. Documentation should specify the right side and the sequela nature of the condition.

• Always assign a secondary code to describe the specific nature of the sequela (e.g., hemiplegia, chronic pain).
• Ensure the documentation explicitly states the injury is "unspecified" and affects the "right vertebral artery."
• Do not use this code for acute injuries; instead, refer to the acute injury codes within the S15.1 category.