How To Use CPT Code 24340

CPT code 24340 describes the tenodesis of the biceps tendon at the elbow as a separate procedure. 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 24340?

CPT 24340 is used to describe the tenodesis of the biceps tendon at the elbow as a separate procedure. This procedure involves repairing a rupture of the distal biceps tendon to restore elbow function. The provider sutures the tear, creates a defect in the radial tuberosity, drills holes through the defect, and secures the tendon inside using sutures. The incision is then closed with layered closure.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 24340 is: ‘Tenodesis of biceps tendon at elbow (separate procedure).’

3. Procedure

During the tenodesis of the biceps tendon at the elbow, the provider performs the following steps:

1. Prepares and anesthetizes the patient
2. Incises the upper arm to locate the torn biceps tendon
3. Debrides the area if necessary
4. Sutures the tear
5. Incises the arm again to locate the radial tuberosity
6. Drills holes in the radial tuberosity to create a defect
7. Drills more holes through the defect
8. Sutures through the holes and places the tendon inside
9. Secures the sutures
10. Repairs the incision with layered closure

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 24340 is performed when there is a rupture of the distal biceps tendon that requires surgical repair. The procedure is indicated to restore elbow function. The provider must assess the patient’s condition and determine the need for tenodesis of the biceps tendon at the elbow.

5. When to use CPT code 24340

CPT code 24340 should be used when the provider performs the tenodesis of the biceps tendon at the elbow as a separate procedure. It is important to ensure that the procedure is not bundled with any other surgical procedures performed during the same session.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 24340, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for tenodesis of the biceps tendon at the elbow
• Details of the procedure performed, including the steps involved
• Date of the procedure
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 24340, ensure that the procedure is performed as a separate procedure and not bundled with any other surgical procedures. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the payer to ensure accurate billing and reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT 24340 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 24340

There are several similar codes to CPT 24340 that describe procedures involving the repair, revision, and/or reconstruction of the humerus and elbow. These include:

• CPT 24332: Tenolysis in the triceps area
• CPT 24341: Tenodesis of biceps tendon at shoulder (separate procedure)
• CPT 24342: Tenodesis of biceps tendon at shoulder, with prosthetic implant (separate procedure)
• CPT 24343: Tenodesis of biceps tendon at shoulder, with allograft (separate procedure)
• CPT 24344: Tenodesis of biceps tendon at shoulder, with autograft (separate procedure)

9. Examples

1. A patient with a ruptured distal biceps tendon undergoes tenodesis of the biceps tendon at the elbow to restore elbow function.
2. A provider repairs a tear in the biceps tendon at the elbow using sutures and secures the tendon inside the radial tuberosity.
3. A patient with a chronic biceps tendon rupture undergoes tenodesis of the biceps tendon at the elbow to improve elbow stability.
4. A provider performs tenodesis of the biceps tendon at the elbow as a separate procedure during a surgical session.
5. A patient with a traumatic injury to the biceps tendon undergoes tenodesis at the elbow to restore normal arm function.
6. A provider performs tenodesis of the biceps tendon at the elbow using a standardized technique to ensure optimal outcomes.
7. A patient with chronic pain and limited range of motion in the elbow undergoes tenodesis of the biceps tendon to improve function.
8. A provider repairs a complete rupture of the distal biceps tendon at the elbow using sutures and anchors.
9. A patient with a partial tear of the biceps tendon at the elbow undergoes tenodesis to prevent further damage and improve function.
10. A provider performs tenodesis of the biceps tendon at the elbow as a standalone procedure to address a chronic biceps tendon injury.