Other nondisp fx of fourth cervical vertebra, sequela

This code indicates a long-term complication or late effect stemming from a previously sustained, nondisplaced fracture of the fourth cervical vertebra (C4) that was not otherwise specified. It signifies that the initial injury has healed, but residual issues or conditions persist as a direct consequence of that fracture.

Use this code when a patient presents with a current condition or symptom directly attributable to a past, healed, nondisplaced C4 fracture. Documentation should clearly link the current sequela (e.g., chronic pain, nerve impingement, limited range of motion) to the historical fracture event. This code is appropriate for encounters addressing the ongoing management of these late effects.

• Always sequence the code for the specific sequela (e.g., chronic pain, myelopathy) first, followed by this sequela code.
• Ensure the medical record explicitly states that the fracture is "nondisplaced" and identifies the "fourth cervical vertebra" as the affected site.
• Do not use this code for initial or subsequent encounters while the fracture is still healing; use the appropriate acute or routine healing codes instead.