Dislocation of C2/C3 cervical vertebrae, sequela

This code signifies a long-term complication or late effect resulting from a previous dislocation of the C2/C3 cervical vertebrae. This could include chronic pain, neurological deficits, instability, or degenerative changes directly attributable to the past injury. It indicates that the initial acute injury has resolved, but its lasting impact continues.

Use this code when documenting a patient presenting with ongoing symptoms or conditions directly related to a past C2/C3 dislocation. Documentation should clearly state a history of C2/C3 dislocation and describe the current sequela, such as persistent radiculopathy, myelopathy, or chronic cervicalgia. This code is appropriate for follow-up care addressing these chronic issues.

• Always sequence the sequela code first, followed by a code describing the specific manifestation of the sequela (e.g., chronic pain, neurological deficit).
• Ensure documentation explicitly links the current condition to the prior C2/C3 dislocation.
• Do not use this code for acute or initial dislocations; those require acute injury codes.