Post displ Type II dens fracture, subs for fx w nonunion

This code signifies a specific type of cervical spine injury: a fracture of the odontoid process (dens) of the C2 vertebra, where the fractured fragment is displaced posteriorly. It further specifies that this is a Type II fracture, indicating a break at the base of the dens, and that the patient is in a subsequent phase of care where the fracture has failed to heal (nonunion).

Use this code for patients presenting for follow-up care of a previously diagnosed posterior displaced Type II dens fracture that has not united. Documentation should clearly state "nonunion" or "failed union" and specify the posterior displacement and Type II classification. This code is appropriate when the patient is receiving ongoing treatment for the nonunion, such as bracing, physical therapy, or preparation for surgical intervention.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "nonunion" and the specific fracture type (Type II) and displacement (posterior).
• Do not use this code for initial encounters or for fractures that are healing normally.
• Consider sequencing this code with external cause codes (V, W, X, Y categories) if the cause of the injury is still relevant for the subsequent encounter.