Unspecified disp fx of sixth cervical vertebra, sequela

This code signifies a long-term complication or late effect stemming from an unspecified displaced fracture of the sixth cervical vertebra. It indicates that the initial injury has healed, but the patient continues to experience residual problems directly attributable to that past fracture.

Apply this code when documenting conditions like chronic pain, nerve damage, deformity, or restricted range of motion that are a direct consequence of a previously healed C6 vertebral fracture. Documentation should clearly link the current condition to the prior injury and indicate that the acute phase of the fracture has passed.

• Always sequence the sequela code first, followed by a code describing the specific residual condition (e.g., chronic pain, myelopathy).
• Ensure the medical record explicitly states that the current condition is a "sequela," "late effect," or "due to old injury" of the C6 fracture.
• Do not use this code for active, acute, or subacute fractures; those require codes from the initial encounter or subsequent encounter categories.