How To Use CPT Code 23334

CPT code 23334 describes the removal of a prosthesis from the humeral or glenoid areas of the shoulder, including debridement and synovectomy when performed. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 23334?

CPT 23334 is used to describe the removal of a prosthesis from either the humeral or glenoid areas of the shoulder. This code includes debridement and synovectomy if performed during the procedure. It is important to note that CPT 23334 specifically refers to the removal of a prosthesis from one area of the shoulder, whereas CPT 23335 is used when both the humeral and glenoid prostheses are removed.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 23334 is: ‘Removal of prosthesis, includes debridement and synovectomy when performed humeral or glenoid component.’

3. Procedure

The procedure for CPT 23334 involves the following steps:

1. The patient is prepped and anesthetized.
2. An incision is made to access the prosthesis in either the humeral or glenoid area of the shoulder.
3. If necessary, the physician performs debridement to remove any inflamed synovial or scar tissue.
4. The prosthesis is carefully removed using appropriate extraction instruments.
5. The wound is irrigated and local anesthetic is applied.
6. The wound is closed in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 23334 is used when a prosthesis is being removed from either the humeral or glenoid areas of the shoulder. This code may also include debridement and synovectomy if performed during the procedure. It is important to note that CPT 23334 specifically refers to the removal of a prosthesis from one area of the shoulder, and should not be used when both the humeral and glenoid prostheses are being removed.

5. When to use CPT code 23334

CPT code 23334 should be used when a prosthesis is being removed from either the humeral or glenoid areas of the shoulder, and debridement and synovectomy are performed during the procedure. It is important to accurately document the specific area of the shoulder from which the prosthesis is being removed to ensure proper coding.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 23334, the following documentation is required:

• Patient’s diagnosis necessitating the removal of the prosthesis
• Specific area of the shoulder from which the prosthesis is being removed (humeral or glenoid)
• Description of any debridement or synovectomy performed during the procedure
• Date of the procedure
• Details of the surgical technique used
• Any complications or unexpected findings
• Signature of the performing physician

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 23334, ensure that the procedure involves the removal of a prosthesis from either the humeral or glenoid areas of the shoulder, and includes debridement and synovectomy if performed. It is important to accurately document the specific area of the shoulder from which the prosthesis is being removed to ensure proper coding. CPT code 23334 should not be reported if both the humeral and glenoid prostheses are being removed; in such cases, CPT code 23335 should be used instead.

8. Historical information

CPT code 23334 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2014. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient with a failed humeral prosthesis undergoes a procedure to remove the prosthesis, including debridement and synovectomy.
2. A patient with a glenoid prosthesis experiences complications and requires removal of the prosthesis, along with debridement and synovectomy.
3. A patient with a history of infection in the humeral area undergoes a procedure to remove the prosthesis, with debridement and synovectomy performed to ensure complete removal of infected tissue.
4. A patient with a glenoid prosthesis experiences instability and requires removal of the prosthesis, along with debridement and synovectomy to address any underlying issues.
5. A patient with a failed humeral prosthesis undergoes a revision procedure, which includes removal of the prosthesis and revision of the humeral component.