Stable burst fracture of fourth lumbar vertebra, init

This code signifies a fracture of the fourth lumbar vertebra where the vertebral body is compressed and expanded in all directions, but the posterior ligamentous complex remains intact, indicating spinal stability. The fracture is closed, meaning there is no open wound communicating with the fracture site.

Apply this code for initial treatment of a stable burst fracture affecting the L4 vertebra, typically identified through imaging studies like X-rays or CT scans. This is appropriate when the patient presents for the first time for this specific injury and there is no evidence of spinal instability.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "stable burst fracture" of L4 and "closed" to support this code.
• Verify this is the patient's initial encounter for this specific fracture; subsequent encounters will require different seventh characters.
• Always review imaging reports and physician notes for details on fracture type, location, and stability.