Brown-Sequard syndrome at C3, sequela

This code signifies the long-term effects or complications arising from Brown-Sequard syndrome, specifically when the initial injury occurred at the C3 level of the cervical spinal cord. Brown-Sequard syndrome is characterized by hemisection of the spinal cord, resulting in ipsilateral motor paralysis and loss of proprioception/vibration, and contralateral loss of pain and temperature sensation below the level of the lesion. The "sequela" indicates that the patient is presenting for treatment of a residual condition directly attributable to this past spinal cord injury.

Use this code when documenting and billing for ongoing care related to chronic neurological deficits, pain, spasticity, or other persistent issues stemming from a historical Brown-Sequard injury at C3. Documentation should clearly state the C3 level involvement and indicate that the current encounter addresses a residual condition, rather than the acute injury itself. This code is appropriate when the initial injury has healed, but its lasting effects require continued medical attention.

• Always ensure documentation explicitly states "sequela" or clearly indicates the chronic nature of the condition being treated.
• Do not use this code for the initial acute injury; instead, use the acute injury code (e.g., S14.143A for initial encounter).
• Code any associated neurological deficits (e.g., spasticity, chronic pain) separately, linking them to the sequela code as appropriate.