How To Use CPT Code 23520

CPT code 23520 describes the closed treatment of sternoclavicular dislocation without manipulation. 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 23520?

CPT 23520 is used to describe the closed treatment of sternoclavicular dislocation without manipulation. This code is used when a healthcare provider performs a procedure to treat the abnormal separation of the joint between the sternum (breastbone) and the clavicle (collarbone) without adjusting or manipulating the dislocated bones. The treatment involves stabilizing the bones using a sling or brace for a period of four weeks to promote proper healing.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 23520 is: ‘Closed treatment of sternoclavicular dislocation without manipulation.’

3. Procedure

In the procedure for CPT 23520, the healthcare provider first performs an X-ray to examine the dislocated joint. If the X-ray shows that the dislocation is clean and well aligned, no manipulation or adjustment of the dislocated bone is necessary. The provider then immobilizes the joint by placing it in a sling or brace for four weeks to allow the bones to heal properly. Another X-ray may be performed to confirm the reduction of the dislocation.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 23520 is used for patients with sternoclavicular joint dislocation, which is an abnormal separation of the joint between the sternum and the clavicle. The procedure is performed without manipulation or adjustment of the dislocated bones. Surgery is not required for this treatment.

5. When to use CPT code 23520

CPT code 23520 should be used when a healthcare provider performs a closed treatment of sternoclavicular dislocation without manipulation. It is important to note that this code should not be used if manipulation or adjustment of the dislocated bones is performed. In such cases, CPT code 23525 should be used instead.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 23520, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of sternoclavicular dislocation
• Performance of an X-ray to examine the dislocated joint
• Confirmation that the dislocation is clean and well aligned
• Use of a sling or brace to immobilize the joint for four weeks
• Progress of the patient’s healing and any follow-up X-rays performed
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 23520, ensure that the procedure performed is a closed treatment of sternoclavicular dislocation without manipulation. It is important to use the appropriate code based on the specific procedure performed. CPT code 23520 should not be reported if manipulation or adjustment of the dislocated bones is performed. It is also important to follow any additional guidelines provided by the payer or insurance company.

8. Historical information

CPT code 23520 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Similar codes to CPT 23520

There are no similar codes to CPT 23520 within the range of fracture and/or dislocation procedures on the shoulder (23500-23680).

9. Examples

1. A patient presents with a sternoclavicular dislocation. The healthcare provider performs a closed treatment without manipulation, immobilizing the joint with a sling for four weeks.
2. Following an X-ray examination, a patient is diagnosed with sternoclavicular dislocation. The healthcare provider determines that the dislocation is clean and well aligned, and proceeds with closed treatment using a brace for four weeks.
3. A patient with sternoclavicular dislocation undergoes an X-ray, which confirms the clean and well-aligned dislocation. The healthcare provider applies a sling to immobilize the joint and schedules follow-up X-rays to monitor the progress of healing.
4. After an X-ray reveals sternoclavicular dislocation, the healthcare provider opts for closed treatment without manipulation. The patient is provided with a brace to stabilize the joint for four weeks.
5. A patient presents with sternoclavicular dislocation, and an X-ray confirms the clean and well-aligned dislocation. The healthcare provider prescribes a sling to immobilize the joint and schedules follow-up appointments to monitor the healing process.
6. Following an X-ray examination, a patient is diagnosed with sternoclavicular dislocation. The healthcare provider determines that the dislocation is clean and well aligned, and proceeds with closed treatment using a brace for four weeks.
7. A patient with sternoclavicular dislocation undergoes an X-ray, which confirms the clean and well-aligned dislocation. The healthcare provider applies a sling to immobilize the joint and schedules follow-up X-rays to monitor the progress of healing.
8. After an X-ray reveals sternoclavicular dislocation, the healthcare provider opts for closed treatment without manipulation. The patient is provided with a brace to stabilize the joint for four weeks.
9. A patient presents with sternoclavicular dislocation, and an X-ray confirms the clean and well-aligned dislocation. The healthcare provider prescribes a sling to immobilize the joint and schedules follow-up appointments to monitor the healing process.
10. Following an X-ray examination, a patient is diagnosed with sternoclavicular dislocation. The healthcare provider determines that the dislocation is clean and well aligned, and proceeds with closed treatment using a brace for four weeks.