ICD 10 CM S12.250K | Description & Clinical Information

ICD 10 S12.250K describes a condition where the third cervical vertebra slips over the anterior part of an adjacent vertebra due to an injury, and this code is used for subsequent encounters when there is a fracture without union of the bone and the provider has identified the type of injury of the third cervical vertebra that is not specifically named under any codes in category S12.

Official Description Of S12.250K

The ICD 10 CM book defines ICD 10 code S12.250K as:

When To Use S12.250K

The diagnosis describes by the ICD 10 CM S12.250K code pertains to a specific type of injury that can occur in the cervical vertebrae due to trauma, known as traumatic spondylolisthesis of the third cervical vertebra. This condition causes a range of symptoms that can be debilitating for the patient.

One of the most common symptoms is neck pain that extends toward the shoulder. This pain can be severe, making it difficult for the patient to move their head or neck. Additionally, patients may also experience pain in the back of the head, numbness, stiffness, tenderness, tingling, and weakness in the arms. These symptoms are caused by the trauma to the cervical vertebrae, which can also lead to nerve compression.

Diagnosing the condition involves several steps. Physicians will typically begin by taking a thorough patient history, with a focus on recent injuries that may have caused the traumatic spondylolisthesis. A physical examination of the cervical spine and extremities is necessary to assess patient movement and nerve function. Imaging techniques such as X-rays, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging are also used to evaluate the cervical spine and identify any injury.

Treatment options for the condition vary based on the severity of the patient’s symptoms. In mild cases, patients may simply need rest and immobilization with the use of a cervical collar. Oral analgesics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may be used to manage pain, and corticosteroid injections can help to provide relief as well. Physical therapy exercises and modalities such as heat or cold therapy can help to reduce pain and increase strength.

In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to stabilize the shifted vertebrae. This type of surgery involves fusing the vertebrae together to prevent further movement or damage. This procedure is typically reserved for cases where conservative treatments have not been successful or where there is a risk of further damage without intervention.

Overall, the diagnosis of traumatic spondylolisthesis of the third cervical vertebra can have a significant impact on a patient’s daily life. However, with proper diagnosis and treatment, patients can experience a reduction in symptoms and an improvement in their overall quality of life. Thus, it is important for healthcare providers to be familiar with the diagnosis and treatment options associated with this condition.