Central cord syndrome at C5, sequela

This code signifies the long-term effects or complications arising from central cord syndrome specifically affecting the C5 level of the cervical spinal cord. Central cord syndrome is characterized by greater motor impairment in the upper extremities than in the lower extremities, with varying degrees of sensory loss and bladder dysfunction, typically resulting from hyperextension injuries. The "sequela" indicates that this code is used for conditions that are residual or chronic effects of the initial injury.

Use this code when documenting chronic neurological deficits, such as persistent weakness, spasticity, sensory loss, or bladder dysfunction, that are directly attributable to a past central cord syndrome injury at the C5 level. Documentation should clearly state the C5 level involvement and indicate that the current condition is a residual effect of the original injury, not an acute phase. This code is appropriate for follow-up visits addressing these long-term complications.

• Always sequence this sequela code after the code for the specific residual condition (e.g., G83.2x for monoplegia of upper limb).
• Ensure documentation explicitly links the current neurological deficit to a past central cord syndrome at C5.
• Do not use this code for the initial or acute treatment phase of central cord syndrome; use acute injury codes from the S14 category for those instances.