ICD-10 Coding for Central Cord Syndrome(S14.12XA)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Central Cord Syndrome. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Central Cord Syndrome
S14.12Primary Range
Injury of cervical spinal cord without bone injury
This range includes codes specific to central cord syndrome at different cervical levels.
Fracture of cervical vertebra and other parts of neck
These codes are used when there is a concurrent cervical fracture with central cord syndrome.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for central cord syndrome
Essential facts and insights about Central Cord Syndrome
Primary ICD-10-CM Code for central cord syndrome
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- MRI findings and ASIA scale results
Applicable To
- Central cord syndrome at specific cervical levels
Clinical Validation Requirements
- MRI showing T2 hyperintensity at specific cervical levels
- ASIA Impairment Scale indicating incomplete injury
Code-Specific Risks
- Risk of using unspecified codes when specific level is known
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies the exact cervical level affected.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Fracture of fourth cervical vertebra, initial encounter
S12.3XXADifferential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Anterior cord syndrome
S14.13XADocumentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Central Cord Syndrome to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code S14.12XA.
Impact
Clinical: Inadequate assessment of injury severity., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential loss of reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Include ASIA scale in all assessments of spinal cord injuries.
Impact
Reimbursement: May affect DRG assignment and reimbursement rates., Compliance: Leads to non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Reduces the accuracy of clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Query the provider to specify the cervical level affected.
Impact
Risk of using unspecified codes when specific levels are documented.
Mitigation Strategy
Implement provider queries to clarify documentation.
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 Central Cord Syndrome, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Central Cord Syndrome
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Central Cord Syndrome. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Initial encounter for central cord syndrome
Specialty: Emergency MedicineRequired Elements
- Mechanism of injury
- Motor and sensory exam findings
- Imaging results
- ASIA Impairment Scale
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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