Anterior cord syndrome at C6, sequela

This code describes the long-term effects or complications arising from anterior cord syndrome affecting the C6 level of the cervical spinal cord. Anterior cord syndrome is characterized by motor paralysis, loss of pain and temperature sensation below the lesion, while proprioception, vibration, and touch sensation remain intact. This specific code indicates that the C6 level was the primary site of injury leading to these sequelae.

Use this code for patients presenting with chronic or residual neurological deficits directly attributable to a past anterior cord syndrome at the C6 level. Documentation should clearly indicate a previous diagnosis of anterior cord syndrome at C6 and describe the ongoing neurological impairments. This code is appropriate when the acute phase of the injury has passed, and the patient is experiencing lasting effects.

• Ensure documentation specifies "anterior cord syndrome" and not other types of spinal cord injury.
• Verify the specific cervical level (C6) is documented as the primary site of the anterior cord syndrome.
• The seventh character "S" indicates sequela; do not use for acute or initial encounters.