Oth disp fx of fourth cervcal vert, subs for fx w delay heal

This code signifies a fracture of the fourth cervical vertebra that is not in its anatomical alignment, and the patient is in a subsequent phase of care where the fracture is healing slower than expected. It indicates ongoing management for a non-union or malunion risk of a C4 vertebral fracture.

Apply this code when a patient presents for follow-up care of a previously diagnosed displaced C4 fracture, and the physician's documentation explicitly states "delayed healing" or similar terminology indicating a slower-than-normal healing process. This is appropriate for encounters where the focus is on monitoring and managing the delayed healing of the fracture.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "displaced" and "delayed healing" for the fourth cervical vertebra.
• This code requires a seventh character "G" for subsequent encounter with delayed healing; do not confuse with "A" (initial encounter) or "K" (nonunion).
• Always sequence this code as a primary diagnosis when the delayed healing of the fracture is the primary reason for the encounter.