How To Use CPT Code 23540

CPT code 23540 describes the closed treatment of acromioclavicular 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 23540?

CPT 23540 is used to describe the closed treatment of acromioclavicular dislocation without manipulation. This code is used when a healthcare provider performs a procedure to treat the abnormal separation of the joint between the shoulder blade and the collar bone without adjusting the dislocated bones or requiring surgery.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 23540 is: ‘Closed treatment of acromioclavicular dislocation without manipulation.’

3. Procedure

In this procedure, the healthcare provider performs a closed treatment of an acromioclavicular joint dislocation without manipulation. The patient is appropriately prepped, and an X-ray is performed to examine the dislocated joint. If the break appears clean and well aligned in the X-ray, no manipulation or adjustment of the dislocated bone is necessary. The provider then places the joint in a sling or brace for four weeks to stabilize the bones and aid in healing. A follow-up X-ray may be performed to confirm the reduction of the dislocation.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 23540 is used for patients with an acromioclavicular joint dislocation that does not require manipulation. This procedure is performed when the bones are well aligned and do not require adjustment. It is important to note that this code is specifically for closed treatment without manipulation, and should not be used if manipulation is performed.

5. When to use CPT code 23540

CPT code 23540 should be used when a healthcare provider performs a closed treatment of acromioclavicular dislocation without manipulation. It is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description, including the absence of manipulation or adjustment of the dislocated bones.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 23540, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of acromioclavicular dislocation
• Confirmation of well-aligned bones in the X-ray
• Use of a sling or brace for stabilization
• Duration of sling or brace wear (four weeks)
• Follow-up X-ray to confirm reduction of the dislocation

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 23540, ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description, including the absence of manipulation or adjustment of the dislocated bones. It is important to accurately document the procedure and provide the necessary supporting documentation. Additionally, be aware of any specific billing guidelines or requirements from insurance providers.

8. Historical information

CPT 23540 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 23540

There are several similar codes to CPT 23540 that describe different procedures for the treatment of acromioclavicular dislocation. These include:

• CPT 23545: Closed treatment of acromioclavicular dislocation with manipulation
• CPT 23550: Closed treatment of acromioclavicular dislocation, with or without internal or external fixation
• CPT 23552: Closed treatment of acromioclavicular dislocation, with or without internal or external fixation; with coracoclavicular ligament repair or reconstruction
• CPT 23570: Closed treatment of acromioclavicular dislocation, with or without internal or external fixation; with distal clavicle resection
• CPT 23575: Closed treatment of acromioclavicular dislocation, with or without internal or external fixation; with coracoclavicular ligament and/or deltoid fascia repair or reconstruction

9. Examples

1. A patient presents with an acromioclavicular dislocation, and the healthcare provider performs closed treatment without manipulation, placing the joint in a sling for four weeks.
2. After an X-ray confirms a well-aligned acromioclavicular dislocation, the healthcare provider applies a brace to stabilize the joint for the healing process.
3. A patient with an acromioclavicular dislocation undergoes closed treatment without manipulation, and a follow-up X-ray confirms the reduction of the dislocation.
4. The healthcare provider performs closed treatment without manipulation for an acromioclavicular dislocation, providing instructions for sling use and follow-up care.
5. After an X-ray confirms a well-aligned acromioclavicular dislocation, the healthcare provider applies a sling to immobilize the joint and promote healing.
6. A patient with an acromioclavicular dislocation receives closed treatment without manipulation, and a follow-up X-ray shows successful reduction of the dislocation.
7. The healthcare provider performs closed treatment without manipulation for an acromioclavicular dislocation, providing the patient with a sling for support and stabilization.
8. After an X-ray confirms a well-aligned acromioclavicular dislocation, the healthcare provider prescribes a brace to be worn for four weeks to aid in the healing process.
9. A patient with an acromioclavicular dislocation undergoes closed treatment without manipulation, and a follow-up X-ray confirms the successful reduction of the dislocation.
10. The healthcare provider performs closed treatment without manipulation for an acromioclavicular dislocation, instructing the patient to wear a sling for four weeks to promote healing.