How To Use CPT Code 24331

CPT code 24331 describes a surgical procedure known as flexor-plasty, specifically for the elbow. 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 24331?

CPT 24331 is a code used to describe a surgical procedure called flexor-plasty, which is performed on the elbow. This procedure involves increasing the strength of elbow flexion by transferring a group of flexor muscles from the medial condyle of the humerus to a higher position on the humeral bone surface. Additionally, the extensor tendon is transferred from the lower end of the humerus to just below the neck of the radius bone to the radial tuberosity. The purpose of this procedure is to improve the function and mobility of the elbow joint.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 24331 is: ‘Flexor-plasty, elbow (eg, Steindler type advancement) with extensor advancement.’

3. Procedure

The flexor-plasty procedure, represented by CPT code 24331, involves several steps:

1. The patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized.
2. The provider makes a longitudinal curved incision over the medial condyle of the humerus.
3. The provider retracts blood vessels and nerve tissues to prevent damage.
4. The provider identifies the common origin of the flexor muscles group, including the pronator teres, flexor carpi radialis, palmaris longus, flexor digitorum sublimis, and flexor carpi ulnaris.
5. The provider separates the origin from the medial condyle and attaches it a few centimeters above on the humeral bone surface laterally.
6. The provider makes an incision on the posterior side of the upper arm and exposes the triceps muscles.
7. The provider separates the triceps muscle from its insertion on the back of the humerus.
8. The provider transfers the triceps muscle down to the radial tuberosity.
9. The provider closes the incision in layers and applies a splint with the elbow flexed.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT code 24331 is typically performed on patients who have a specific need for increased elbow flexion strength. This procedure may be indicated for individuals with biceps brachii muscle injury or paralysis. The patient’s condition and medical history should be evaluated to determine if flexor-plasty is an appropriate treatment option. It is important to note that the procedure should only be performed by a qualified healthcare professional with expertise in this specific surgical technique.

5. When to use CPT code 24331

CPT code 24331 should be used when a provider performs the flexor-plasty procedure on the elbow. This code accurately represents the surgical intervention aimed at improving elbow flexion strength. It is important to review the patient’s medical records and documentation to ensure that the procedure performed aligns with the description provided by CPT code 24331.

6. Documentation requirements

Documentation for CPT code 24331 should include the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and indication for the flexor-plasty procedure
• Details of the surgical technique used, including the specific muscles involved and their transfer locations
• Date of the procedure
• Incision details and closure method
• Postoperative care instructions
• Any complications or unexpected findings during the procedure
• Provider’s signature and credentials

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 24331, it is important to ensure that the procedure performed aligns with the description provided. The provider should be qualified and experienced in performing flexor-plasty procedures on the elbow. It is also essential to follow the appropriate coding guidelines and modifiers, if applicable, to accurately represent the services rendered.

8. Historical information

CPT code 24331 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 24331

There are several similar codes to CPT code 24331 that may be used to describe related procedures. These include:

• CPT 24332: Flexor-plasty, elbow (eg, Steindler type advancement) with extensor advancement; with tendon lengthening, single
• CPT 24333: Flexor-plasty, elbow (eg, Steindler type advancement) with extensor advancement; with tendon lengthening, multiple
• CPT 24334: Flexor-plasty, elbow (eg, Steindler type advancement) with extensor advancement; with tendon transfer, single
• CPT 24335: Flexor-plasty, elbow (eg, Steindler type advancement) with extensor advancement; with tendon transfer, multiple
• CPT 24336: Flexor-plasty, elbow (eg, Steindler type advancement) with extensor advancement; with tendon transfer, multiple, with tendon lengthening, multiple

9. Examples

1. A patient with biceps brachii muscle injury undergoes flexor-plasty on the elbow to improve flexion strength.
2. An individual with paralysis in the elbow region receives flexor-plasty to restore functional movement.
3. A professional athlete undergoes the flexor-plasty procedure to enhance performance and prevent further injury.
4. A patient with limited elbow flexion due to a congenital condition undergoes flexor-plasty to improve range of motion.
5. An individual with a history of failed conservative treatments for elbow flexion weakness opts for flexor-plasty as a surgical intervention.
6. A patient with a traumatic injury to the elbow undergoes flexor-plasty to restore normal function.
7. An elderly individual with age-related degeneration in the elbow joint receives flexor-plasty to improve mobility and quality of life.
8. A patient with a chronic condition affecting elbow flexion strength undergoes flexor-plasty as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.