Unsp disp fx of 4th cervcal vert, subs for fx w delay heal

This code signifies a fracture of the fourth cervical vertebra that is displaced and the specific type of fracture is not documented. The patient is in a subsequent phase of care, and the fracture is experiencing delayed healing, meaning the normal healing process is taking longer than expected. This indicates ongoing medical management for the non-union or slow progression of bone repair.

Apply this code when a patient presents for follow-up care of a previously diagnosed, unspecified, displaced C4 vertebral fracture, and the provider's documentation explicitly states "delayed healing." This is typically used after initial treatment (e.g., immobilization, surgery) when the fracture site is not consolidating as anticipated. Documentation should clearly indicate the cervical level, displacement, and the delayed healing status.

• Ensure documentation specifies "delayed healing" for this subsequent encounter; otherwise, a routine subsequent encounter code (e.g., S12.300D) would be more appropriate.
• Do not use this code for initial encounters or for fractures that are healing normally.
• Verify the specific cervical vertebra (C4) and the displaced nature of the fracture are clearly documented.