How To Use CPT Code 23532

CPT code 23532 describes the open treatment of sternoclavicular dislocation, whether acute or chronic, with the use of a fascial graft. 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 23532?

CPT 23532 is used to describe the open treatment of sternoclavicular dislocation, whether it is a new or recurring abnormal separation of the joint. During this procedure, a qualified healthcare provider performs an open reduction of the dislocated joint and uses a graft of fascia to help fixate the bones in place. Internal fixation implants, such as pins or screws, may also be used to repair the dislocation.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 23532 is: ‘Open treatment of sternoclavicular dislocation, acute or chronic with fascial graft (includes obtaining graft).’

3. Procedure

When performing the open treatment of sternoclavicular dislocation, the healthcare provider follows a specific procedure:

1. The patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized.
2. The provider makes an incision over the dislocated joint.
3. Subcutaneous tissue is dissected, taking care to protect nerves and vessels.
4. The muscles are retracted to expose the sternoclavicular joint.
5. The provider adjusts the bone to reduce the dislocated joint.
6. A fascial graft is obtained through a separate incision on another part of the body.
7. The dislocated bone is fixed in place using the fascial graft and internal fixation implants.
8. The wounds are closed by suturing the skin layers together.
9. A sling or brace is placed on the sternoclavicular joint for four weeks to aid in healing.
10. An X-ray examination may be performed to confirm the reduction of the dislocation.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 23532 is used for patients with acute or chronic sternoclavicular dislocation. The procedure involves the use of a fascial graft to fixate the bones in place. The patient must have a documented diagnosis of sternoclavicular dislocation, and the procedure must be performed by a qualified healthcare provider.

5. When to use CPT code 23532

CPT code 23532 should be used when a qualified healthcare provider performs an open treatment of sternoclavicular dislocation, whether acute or chronic, using a fascial graft. This code should not be used if a graft is not utilized during the procedure.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 23532, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of sternoclavicular dislocation
• Use of a fascial graft during the procedure
• Date of the procedure
• Details of the procedure, including the reduction of the dislocation and fixation with the graft and implants
• Any additional procedures performed, such as X-ray examination
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 23532, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for an open treatment of sternoclavicular dislocation with a fascial graft. It is important to use the appropriate CPT code based on the specific procedure performed. There are no specific guidelines regarding reporting CPT 23532 with other codes.

8. Historical information

CPT 23532 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 23532

There are no similar codes to CPT 23532 within the range of fracture and/or dislocation procedures on the shoulder (23500-23680).

9. Examples

1. A patient presents with a chronic sternoclavicular dislocation. The healthcare provider performs an open treatment using a fascial graft to fixate the bones in place.
2. An individual sustains an acute sternoclavicular dislocation due to trauma. The healthcare provider performs an open reduction and uses a fascial graft to stabilize the joint.
3. A patient with a recurring sternoclavicular dislocation undergoes an open treatment procedure. The healthcare provider utilizes a fascial graft to help maintain joint stability.
4. An individual is diagnosed with an acute sternoclavicular dislocation. The healthcare provider performs an open treatment procedure, fixing the dislocated joint with a fascial graft.
5. A patient presents with a chronic sternoclavicular dislocation that has not responded to conservative treatment. The healthcare provider performs an open reduction and uses a fascial graft to stabilize the joint.
6. An individual sustains an acute sternoclavicular dislocation during a sports activity. The healthcare provider performs an open treatment procedure, utilizing a fascial graft to aid in joint fixation.
7. A patient with a chronic sternoclavicular dislocation seeks surgical intervention. The healthcare provider performs an open reduction and uses a fascial graft to stabilize the joint.
8. An individual experiences an acute sternoclavicular dislocation following a motor vehicle accident. The healthcare provider performs an open treatment procedure, utilizing a fascial graft to help maintain joint stability.
9. A patient presents with a chronic sternoclavicular dislocation that causes significant pain and functional impairment. The healthcare provider performs an open reduction and uses a fascial graft to stabilize the joint.
10. An individual sustains an acute sternoclavicular dislocation during a fall. The healthcare provider performs an open treatment procedure, fixing the dislocated joint with a fascial graft.