Oth traum displ spondylolysis of sixth cervcal vert, init

This code signifies a traumatic forward slippage of the C6 vertebra over the C7 vertebra, where the vertebral body is no longer properly aligned with the one below it, resulting from an injury. The fracture is closed, meaning the skin remains intact over the injury site.

Apply this code for initial encounters involving a newly diagnosed traumatic spondylolisthesis of the C6 vertebra with displacement, specifically when the fracture is closed. Documentation should clearly state "traumatic," "displaced," "C6," and "closed fracture" in the context of an initial treatment phase.

• Confirm the encounter is "initial" for the fracture treatment, not a subsequent or sequela encounter.
• Distinguish from non-traumatic (degenerative) spondylolisthesis, which uses codes from the M43.1- series.
• Ensure documentation specifies "displaced" versus "nondisplaced" (S12.54-).