Concussion and edema of cervical spinal cord, init encntr

This code signifies a traumatic brain injury affecting the cervical spinal cord, characterized by a temporary disturbance of neurological function (concussion) and swelling (edema) within the spinal cord tissue. It indicates the initial phase of treatment for such an injury.

Apply this code for patients presenting with acute symptoms of cervical spinal cord concussion and associated edema following a traumatic event, such as whiplash or a fall. Documentation should clearly state both concussion and edema of the cervical spinal cord, and that this is the first encounter for this specific injury.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states both "concussion" and "edema" of the cervical spinal cord.
• Verify the "initial encounter" designation, as subsequent encounters for the same injury will require different seventh characters.
• Differentiate from spinal cord contusion (S14.1-) which implies more severe tissue damage.