Unsp traum displ spondylolysis of fifth cervcal vert, sqla

This code describes a long-term complication or late effect of an unspecified traumatic injury that resulted in a displaced spondylolisthesis of the fifth cervical vertebra. This indicates a vertebral body of C5 has slipped forward over the vertebra below it due to trauma, and the displacement is still present or causing ongoing issues after the initial injury has healed. The "sequela" designation signifies that this code is used for conditions that are residual effects of a previous injury or illness.

Use this code when documenting a patient presenting with chronic symptoms or complications directly attributable to a previously sustained traumatic displaced spondylolisthesis of the C5 vertebra. This code is appropriate for follow-up encounters where the initial traumatic event has passed the acute phase, and the spondylolisthesis is now considered a long-term consequence. Documentation should clearly state the traumatic origin of the spondylolisthesis and the current status as a sequela.

• Always sequence this sequela code after the code(s) for the specific residual condition(s) being treated (e.g., cervical radiculopathy, myelopathy).
• Ensure documentation specifies "traumatic" etiology and "displaced" nature of the spondylolisthesis, as well as the specific cervical vertebra (C5).
• Do not use this code for acute traumatic spondylolisthesis; instead, use the appropriate acute injury code from the S12.4- category without the "S" seventh character.