Oth incomplete lesion at C7, init

This code signifies a partial injury to the C7 spinal cord, resulting in some preserved motor and/or sensory function below the neurological level of the injury. It indicates that the spinal cord is not completely severed or damaged at the C7 vertebral level, leading to an incomplete neurological deficit. This type of lesion is often classified using the ASIA Impairment Scale (AIS) as B, C, or D.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states an incomplete spinal cord injury at the C7 level, such as "incomplete C7 tetraplegia" or "ASIA C at C7." This code is appropriate for the initial phase of treatment for the injury, including emergency department visits, initial hospital admissions, or the first encounter for this specific injury. Ensure the physician explicitly states the incompleteness of the lesion and its location at C7.

• Differentiate from complete lesions (S14.14-) where there is no motor or sensory function preserved below the injury level.
• Confirm the specific cervical level (C7) and the "incomplete" nature of the lesion are documented.
• The "A" seventh character indicates an initial encounter for the injury, not necessarily the first time the patient is seen by a provider.