Back to HomeBeta

ICD-10 Coding for C2 Fracture(S12.111A, S12.112A)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for C2 Fracture. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Axis FractureOdontoid FractureHangman's Fracture

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to C2 Fracture

S12.1-Primary Range

Fracture of second cervical vertebra (Axis)

This range covers all types of fractures specific to the C2 vertebra, including dens and other fractures.

Other cervical fractures

Used for coding concurrent cervical fractures, such as C1-C2 combination fractures.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
S12.111APosterior displaced Type II dens fracture, initial encounterUse when a Type II dens fracture is confirmed with posterior displacement during the initial encounter.
  • CT showing posterior displacement
  • Neurological exam findings
S12.112ANondisplaced Type II dens fracture, initial encounterUse when a Type II dens fracture is confirmed without displacement during the initial encounter.
  • CT confirming nondisplacement
  • Absence of myelopathy

Clinical Decision Support

Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for C2 fracture

Essential facts and insights about C2 Fracture

The ICD-10 code for a C2 fracture depends on the type and displacement, such as S12.111A for posterior displaced Type II dens fracture.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for c2 fracture

Posterior displaced Type II dens fracture, initial encounter
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • CT confirmation of posterior displacement

documentation Criteria

  • Initial encounter documentation

Applicable To

  • Type II odontoid fracture

Excludes

  • Atlantoaxial dislocation without fracture (S13.1-)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • CT showing posterior displacement
  • Neurological exam findings

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly coding as unspecified fracture

Coding Notes

  • Ensure displacement and encounter type are documented.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Collapsed vertebra due to osteoporosis

M48.52XA
Use when osteoporosis contributes to the fracture.

Osteoporosis with pathological fracture

M80.08XA
Use when osteoporosis is a contributing factor.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Atlantoaxial dislocation without fracture

S13.1-
Presence of dislocation without fracture evidence.

Spinal cord injury at C2 level

S14.1-
Presence of spinal cord injury symptoms.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting C2 Fracture to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code S12.111A.

Impact

Clinical: Impacts continuity of care, Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards, Financial: Potential for denied claims

Mitigation Strategy

Always document whether the encounter is initial or subsequent

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to lower reimbursement rates., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of clinical data.

Mitigation Strategy

Use specific codes (e.g., S12.111A) based on fracture type and displacement.

Impact

Failure to document displacement can lead to incorrect coding.

Mitigation Strategy

Implement mandatory CT review for all C2 fracture cases.

Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about ICD-10 coding for C2 Fracture, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for C2 Fracture

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for C2 Fracture. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Emergency Department Visit for C2 Fracture

Specialty: Emergency Medicine

Required Elements

  • Mechanism of injury
  • Imaging results
  • Neurological assessment
  • Treatment plan

Example Documentation

Patient presents with neck pain after fall. CT shows posterior displaced Type II dens fracture. Philadelphia collar applied.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
C2 fracture, treat with collar.
Good Documentation Example
Closed posterior displaced Type II dens fracture (S12.111A) confirmed by CT. No spinal cord injury. Philadelphia collar applied. Neurological exam: 4/5 triceps strength.
Explanation
The good example provides specific fracture type, displacement, and neurological findings, improving documentation quality.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for C2 Fracture? Ask your questions below.

Ask about any ICD-10 CM code, or paste a medical note

We build tools for
clinician happiness.

Learn More at Freed.ai
Back to HomeBeta

Built by Freed

Try Freed for free for 7 days.

Learn more