Other displaced fracture of first cervical vertebra, sequela

This code signifies a long-term complication or late effect stemming from a previously sustained, displaced fracture of the atlas (first cervical vertebra). It indicates that the initial injury has healed, but residual issues directly attributable to that fracture persist. These sequelae could include chronic pain, nerve damage, or functional limitations.

Apply this code when documenting a patient presenting with a current condition that is a direct consequence of a past, displaced C1 fracture. The medical record should clearly state the causal link between the old fracture and the current sequela, often years after the initial injury. Documentation must specify the nature of the sequela and its relationship to the prior C1 fracture.

• Always sequence the sequela code first, followed by a code describing the specific nature of the sequela (e.g., chronic pain, nerve palsy).
• Ensure documentation explicitly links the current condition to the prior displaced C1 fracture, not an acute injury.
• Do not use this code for acute or subacute fractures; those require codes from the acute fracture series.