How To Use CPT Code 24330

CPT code 24330 describes a procedure called flexor-plasty, which involves increasing elbow flexion strength by transferring a group of flexor muscles from the medial condyle of the humerus to a few inches up on the humeral bone surface. 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 24330?

CPT 24330 describes a surgical procedure known as flexor-plasty, which is performed to increase elbow flexion strength. During this procedure, a group of flexor muscles, including the pronator teres, flexor carpi radialis, palmaris longus, flexor digitorum sublimis, and flexor carpi ulnaris, is transferred from the medial condyle of the humerus to a few centimeters above on the humeral bone surface. This transposition changes the function of the muscles from pronation of the forearm to flexion of the elbow.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 24330 is: ‘Flexor-plasty, elbow (eg, Steindler type advancement).’ This procedure involves transferring the group of flexor muscles from the medial condyle of the humerus to a more proximal location on the humeral bone surface to increase elbow flexion strength.

3. Procedure

During the flexor-plasty procedure (CPT 24330), the healthcare provider performs the following steps:

1. The patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized.
2. The provider makes a longitudinal curved incision over the medial condyle of the humerus, towards the midline of the elbow.
3. The provider incises down to the level of the muscles, taking care to avoid damage to blood vessels and nerve tissues.
4. The provider retracts the blood vessels and nerve tissues to the sides to prevent any damage.
5. The provider locates the common origin of the flexor muscles group, including the pronator teres, flexor carpi radialis, palmaris longus, flexor digitorum sublimis, and flexor carpi ulnaris.
6. The provider separates the origin of the flexor muscles group from the medial condyle of the humerus.
7. The provider attaches the origin of the flexor muscles group a few centimeters above on the humeral bone surface laterally.
8. This transposition changes the function of the muscles from pronation of the forearm to flexion of the elbow, increasing elbow flexion strength.
9. The provider closes the incision in layers and places a splint while the elbow is flexed to aid in the healing process.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT code 24330 is typically performed in cases where there is a need to increase elbow flexion strength. This procedure is commonly used in the treatment of biceps brachii muscle injury or paralysis. The patient must meet the specific criteria for the procedure, as determined by the healthcare provider.

5. When to use CPT code 24330

CPT code 24330 should be used when a healthcare provider performs a flexor-plasty procedure to increase elbow flexion strength. This code is appropriate when the specific criteria for the procedure are met, as determined by the healthcare provider.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 24330, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for the flexor-plasty procedure
• Details of the procedure performed, including the specific muscles involved and the location of the transfer
• Date of the procedure
• Start and end time of the procedure
• Any additional relevant information or complications encountered during the procedure
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 24330, ensure that the procedure performed meets the specific criteria for flexor-plasty. It is important to follow the appropriate coding guidelines and documentation requirements. CPT code 24330 should not be reported with other codes unless specifically indicated and supported by the documentation.

8. Historical information

CPT code 24330 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Similar codes to CPT 24330

While there are no specific similar codes to CPT code 24330, there are other codes within the range of repair, revision, and/or reconstruction procedures on the humerus (upper arm) and elbow (CPT codes 24300-24498) that may be applicable in different scenarios. It is important to review the code range and select the most appropriate code based on the specific procedure performed.

9. Examples

1. A patient with biceps brachii muscle injury undergoes a flexor-plasty procedure (CPT 24330) to increase elbow flexion strength.
2. A patient with paralysis of the flexor muscles in the elbow undergoes a flexor-plasty procedure (CPT 24330) to restore elbow flexion function.
3. A healthcare provider performs a flexor-plasty procedure (CPT 24330) as part of a reconstructive surgery for a patient with a complex elbow injury.
4. A patient with limited elbow flexion range of motion due to a previous injury undergoes a flexor-plasty procedure (CPT 24330) to improve functional movement.
5. A healthcare provider performs a flexor-plasty procedure (CPT 24330) to address elbow flexion weakness in a patient with a congenital condition.
6. A patient with chronic elbow pain and limited flexion strength undergoes a flexor-plasty procedure (CPT 24330) to improve their overall function and quality of life.
7. A healthcare provider performs a flexor-plasty procedure (CPT 24330) as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for a patient with a complex elbow deformity.
8. A patient with a history of failed conservative treatments for elbow flexion weakness undergoes a flexor-plasty procedure (CPT 24330) to address their condition.