Name of the Condition

• Other Nondisplaced Fracture of Sixth Cervical Vertebra, Initial Encounter for Closed Fracture
• Medical term: Nondisplaced fracture of C6 vertebra

Summary

A nondisplaced fracture of the sixth cervical vertebra is a type of neck fracture where the bone cracks but maintains its proper alignment. This fracture is "closed," meaning the skin remains intact.

Causes

• Trauma from activities such as sports, falls, or car accidents
• Osteoporosis or other conditions that weaken bones

Risk Factors

• Participation in high-impact sports
• Older age leading to weaker bone density
• Previous history of bone fractures or osteoporosis

Symptoms

• Neck pain and tenderness
• Limited range of motion in the neck
• Swelling or bruising around the neck

Diagnosis

• Physical examination by a healthcare professional
• Imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI to confirm a fracture and ascertain its type

Treatment Options

• Neck immobilization with a cervical collar to allow healing
• Pain management with medications such as NSAIDs
• In rare cases, surgery may be required if the fracture does not heal properly with conservative treatment

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• With appropriate treatment and care, most patients recover fully without long-term complications.
• Regular follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress through imaging tests

Complications

• Potential for chronic pain if not treated
• Risk of displacement if not properly stabilized
• Development of degenerative changes in the cervical spine over time

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D to maintain good bone health
• Regular exercise to strengthen neck muscles and enhance flexibility
• Use protective gear during high-risk activities

When to Seek Professional Help

• Severe neck pain following an injury
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or hands
• Any signs of possible spinal cord injury, such as difficulty walking

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)
• National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS)

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure accuracy of the code by confirming the fracture is nondisplaced and involves the sixth cervical vertebra.
• Distinguish between closed and open fractures; use "initial encounter" for new or active treatment phases.
• Avoid miscoding by verifying if the fracture is displaced or involves other cervical vertebrae.