Complete lesion of L5 level of lumbar spinal cord, subs

This code signifies a complete transection or severe damage to the L5 spinal cord, resulting in a total loss of motor and sensory function below that level. This injury affects the lower extremities and potentially bowel/bladder control, with no preserved function in the sacral segments.

Use this code for follow-up encounters where a patient is receiving ongoing care for a previously diagnosed complete L5 spinal cord lesion. This includes rehabilitation, management of complications, or routine check-ups after the initial injury and acute treatment phase.

• Ensure documentation clearly states "complete lesion" and specifies the L5 level.
• Verify this is a subsequent encounter; for initial treatment, a different seventh character is required.
• Confirm the laterality (L5 is a single level, but ensure no other spinal cord levels are involved if this code is used alone).