Wedge compression fracture of fifth lumbar vertebra, sequela

This code signifies a wedge compression fracture affecting the fifth lumbar vertebra, where the anterior portion of the vertebral body has collapsed, resulting in a wedge shape. The "S" suffix indicates that this is a sequela, meaning it represents a late effect or complication of an injury that occurred in the past, rather than an acute injury.

Use this code when documenting a patient presenting with ongoing symptoms or complications directly attributable to a previously sustained wedge compression fracture of the L5 vertebra. This applies to situations where the initial injury has healed, but residual issues such as chronic pain, deformity, or neurological deficits persist. It should not be used for the initial acute fracture.

• Always ensure documentation clearly links current symptoms to the past L5 wedge compression fracture.
• Do not use this code for acute or initial encounters for the fracture; instead, use the appropriate acute fracture code.
• Consider additional codes for any specific chronic pain, neurological deficits, or other sequelae if documented.