CPT Code 25355 | Description & Clinical Information
CPT 25355 describes the excision of bone from the middle or upper one third of the radius of the arm by the provider to correct conditions such as angular deformity of the forearm.
Official Description
The CPT book defines CPT code 25355 as: “Osteotomy, radius; middle or proximal third”.
Clinical Information
The procedure described by CPT code 25355 is a surgical intervention designed to treat fractures in the radius, which is one of the two bones that run from the elbow to the wrist. The procedure is typically performed on patients who have suffered from a broken radius due to trauma or injury.
Before the procedure, the patient is prepped and anesthetized, ensuring that they are comfortable and will not feel any pain or discomfort during the surgery. The provider then makes an incision over the middle of the forearm or just below the elbow joint to access the radius. The incision is made through the muscles to expose the bone, allowing the provider to retract the periosteum and access the required area of the radius.
Using specialized tools, the provider excises a part of the radius, making adjustments to ensure that the bone is at an appropriate angle. This is a critical step in the procedure, as it is essential to align the bone correctly to ensure proper healing and avoid complications.
Once the bone is at the desired angle, the provider fixes it in place using screws and plates for stability. This ensures that the bone remains in the correct position while it heals, reducing the risk of future injuries or complications. The screws and plates help to provide additional support to the fracture site, helping to prevent excessive movement of the bone during the healing process.
After the bone has been fixed in place, the periosteum is placed back on the bone. The site is irrigated to ensure that it is clean and free from debris, and the area is repaired in layers using sutures. If required, the provider will place a drain to help remove excess fluids from the site.
In conclusion, the CPT code 25355 procedure is a relatively common surgical intervention used to treat fractures in the radius. It is performed by orthopedic specialists and is designed to ensure proper alignment and stability of the bone during the healing process. The procedure typically has excellent outcomes, and patients can expect to make a full recovery with the proper post-operative care.
