Unsp injury of unspecified vertebral artery, init encntr

This code signifies an injury to a vertebral artery where the specific artery (right or left) and the precise nature of the injury (e.g., dissection, laceration, thrombosis) are not documented. It indicates the initial phase of treatment for such an unspecified vertebral artery injury.

Use this code when medical record documentation confirms an injury to a vertebral artery but lacks specificity regarding laterality or the exact type of injury. This is appropriate for the initial encounter for treatment of the injury. Documentation supporting its use would include emergency department notes, initial consultation reports, or operative reports that identify a vertebral artery injury without further detail.

• Avoid using this code if the laterality (right or left) of the injured vertebral artery is specified; instead, use the more specific codes within S15.1-.
• Do not use this code if the specific type of injury (e.g., dissection, laceration, puncture) is known; refer to the appropriate subcategories.
• Always ensure the "A" seventh character for initial encounter is appropriate for the patient's current phase of care.