Open fracture of dorsal [thoracic] vertebra without mention of spinal cord injury

This code signifies an open fracture of a thoracic vertebra, meaning the bone has broken through the skin, creating an open wound. It specifically indicates that there is no documented injury to the spinal cord associated with this fracture.

This code is appropriate for traumatic injuries where a patient presents with a visible break in the skin overlying a fractured thoracic vertebra. Documentation should clearly state "open fracture" of a thoracic vertebra and explicitly or implicitly exclude spinal cord involvement.

• Distinguish carefully between open and closed fractures; the presence of an open wound is critical for this code.
• Ensure documentation explicitly states "without mention of spinal cord injury" or clearly indicates no neurological deficits.
• Do not use this code if any spinal cord injury is documented, even if minor.