Complete lesion at C3 level of cervical spinal cord, init

This code signifies a total transection or severe disruption of the spinal cord at the C3 vertebral level, resulting in complete loss of motor and sensory function below that point. This injury typically leads to quadriplegia and significant respiratory compromise due to involvement of the phrenic nerve.

Apply this code for a newly diagnosed complete spinal cord injury at the C3 level, such as from trauma (e.g., motor vehicle accident, fall, diving accident). Documentation must explicitly state "complete lesion" or "complete transection" and specify the C3 level, along with an "initial encounter" for treatment of the acute injury.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "complete" lesion versus "incomplete" to differentiate from S14.123A.
• Verify the specific cervical level (C3) is documented; avoid using this code for injuries at other cervical levels.
• The "A" seventh character indicates the initial encounter for active treatment of the injury. Subsequent encounters will require different seventh characters.