Injury to cervical nerve root

This code signifies damage or trauma specifically affecting the nerve roots originating from the cervical spine. This injury can result in neurological deficits such as pain, numbness, weakness, or paresthesia in the neck, shoulders, arms, and hands, depending on the specific nerve root involved.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a direct injury to a cervical nerve root, often due to trauma like whiplash, fracture, dislocation, or direct impact. It is appropriate for acute presentations of nerve root damage, distinct from chronic compression or degenerative conditions.

• Differentiate from cervical radiculopathy (e.g., 723.4) which implies nerve root compression, not necessarily direct injury.
• Ensure documentation specifies "injury" or "trauma" to the nerve root, not just symptoms.
• Sequence this code as a primary diagnosis when the nerve root injury is the main reason for the encounter.