How To Use CPT Code 23552

CPT code 23552 describes the open treatment of an acute or chronic acromioclavicular dislocation 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 23552?

CPT 23552 is used to describe the open treatment of an acute or chronic acromioclavicular dislocation with the use of a fascial graft. This procedure involves the provider making an incision in the shoulder to access the dislocated joint, adjusting the bones to reduce the dislocation, and using a graft of fascia to fix the dislocated bone in place. Internal fixation implants such as pins or screws may also be used to stabilize the joint.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 23552 is: ‘Open treatment of acromioclavicular dislocation, acute or chronic with fascial graft (includes obtaining graft).’

3. Procedure

In the procedure for CPT 23552, the provider performs an open treatment of an acute or chronic acromioclavicular dislocation. This involves making an incision in the shoulder to access the dislocated joint. The provider then adjusts the bones to reduce the dislocation and obtains a graft of fascia through a separate incision on another part of the body. The dislocated bone is fixed in place using the fascial graft and internal fixation implants such as screws, nails, or wires. The wounds are closed by suturing the skin layers together, and the acromioclavicular joint is placed in a sling or brace for four weeks to aid in healing. An X-ray examination may be performed to confirm the reduction of the dislocation.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 23552 is used for the open treatment of an acute or chronic acromioclavicular dislocation. This procedure is performed when there is an abnormal separation of the joint between the shoulder blade (acromion process) and the collar bone (clavicle). The use of a fascial graft is necessary to fix the dislocated bone in place. The procedure may involve the use of internal fixation implants such as pins or screws to stabilize the joint.

5. When to use CPT code 23552

CPT code 23552 should be used when the provider performs an open treatment of an acute or chronic acromioclavicular dislocation and uses a fascial graft to fix the dislocated bone in place. This code should not be used if a fascial graft is not used during the procedure. In such cases, CPT code 23550 should be used instead.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 23552, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of an acute or chronic acromioclavicular dislocation
• Use of a fascial graft during the procedure
• Date of the procedure
• Start and end time of the procedure
• Details of the procedure, including the incisions made, adjustment of bones, use of internal fixation implants, and closure of wounds
• Confirmation of reduction of the dislocation through an X-ray examination, if performed
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 23552, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for an open treatment of an acute or chronic acromioclavicular dislocation with the use of a fascial graft. It is important to document the use of a fascial graft and any additional procedures performed, such as the use of internal fixation implants. CPT code 23552 should not be reported if a fascial graft is not used during the procedure. In such cases, CPT code 23550 should be used instead.

8. Historical information

CPT code 23552 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 23552

There are no similar codes to CPT 23552 within the range of fracture and/or dislocation procedures on the shoulder (23500-23680).

9. Examples

1. A patient presents with a chronic acromioclavicular dislocation. The provider performs an open treatment of the dislocation using a fascial graft and internal fixation implants to fix the dislocated bone in place.
2. An individual sustains an acute acromioclavicular dislocation due to a sports injury. The provider performs an open treatment of the dislocation using a fascial graft and internal fixation implants to stabilize the joint.
3. A patient with a chronic acromioclavicular dislocation undergoes an open treatment procedure. The provider uses a fascial graft and internal fixation implants to fix the dislocated bone in place, ensuring proper alignment of the joint.
4. An individual presents with an acute acromioclavicular dislocation following a fall. The provider performs an open treatment procedure, utilizing a fascial graft and internal fixation implants to reduce and stabilize the dislocated joint.
5. A patient with a chronic acromioclavicular dislocation undergoes an open treatment procedure. The provider uses a fascial graft and internal fixation implants to restore normal anatomy and improve joint stability.
6. An individual sustains an acute acromioclavicular dislocation during a motor vehicle accident. The provider performs an open treatment procedure, utilizing a fascial graft and internal fixation implants to repair the dislocated joint.
7. A patient presents with a chronic acromioclavicular dislocation that has caused significant pain and limited range of motion. The provider performs an open treatment procedure, using a fascial graft and internal fixation implants to address the dislocation and improve joint function.
8. An individual experiences an acute acromioclavicular dislocation while playing contact sports. The provider performs an open treatment procedure, utilizing a fascial graft and internal fixation implants to stabilize the joint and prevent further injury.
9. A patient with a chronic acromioclavicular dislocation seeks surgical intervention. The provider performs an open treatment procedure, using a fascial graft and internal fixation implants to correct the dislocation and restore joint stability.