Complete lesion at T11-T12, sequela

This code signifies a past, complete transection or severe damage to the thoracic spinal cord specifically between the T11 and T12 vertebral levels, resulting in a permanent loss of motor and sensory function below that point. It indicates that the acute injury has resolved, and the patient is now experiencing the long-term effects or complications of this prior spinal cord damage.

This code is appropriate for documenting the chronic neurological deficits and sequelae arising from a complete spinal cord injury at the T11-T12 level. It should be used when the patient is being treated for conditions directly attributable to this old injury, such as chronic paralysis, spasticity, neurogenic bladder/bowel, or pressure ulcers. This code is not for the initial acute injury.

• Always assign a sequela (S) code for conditions that are the late effects of an injury.
• Ensure documentation clearly states the injury is complete and specifies the T11-T12 level.
• Code any associated neurological deficits or complications (e.g., paraplegia, neurogenic bladder) in addition to this sequela code.