Unspecified nondisp fx of third cervical vertebra, sequela

This code signifies a long-term complication or late effect stemming from a previously sustained, unspecified nondisplaced fracture of the third cervical vertebra. It indicates that the initial injury has healed, but the patient is still experiencing residual problems directly attributable to that fracture.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a sequela (e.g., chronic pain, limited range of motion, neurological deficits) directly resulting from a past nondisplaced C3 fracture. This code is used for encounters where the patient is being treated for the residual effects, not the acute fracture itself.

• Always sequence the sequela code first, followed by a code describing the specific residual condition (e.g., chronic pain, myelopathy).
• Ensure documentation explicitly links the current condition to the past C3 fracture and specifies "sequela" or "late effect."
• Do not use this code for acute or active treatment of the fracture itself; use the appropriate acute fracture code with an initial, subsequent, or routine healing encounter seventh character.