How To Use CPT Code 24342

CPT 24342 describes the reinsertion of a ruptured biceps or triceps tendon, specifically the distal end, with or without a tendon 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 24342?

CPT 24342 is used to describe the surgical procedure in which a healthcare provider reattaches a torn or separated distal end of a biceps or triceps tendon back to the bone from where it detached. This procedure may involve the use of a tendon graft to facilitate the reinsertion.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 24342 is: ‘Reinsertion of ruptured biceps or triceps tendon, distal, with or without tendon graft.’

3. Procedure

During the procedure, the patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized. The healthcare provider makes an incision over the anterior elbow near the location of the biceps tendon detachment on the bicipital tuberosity of the radial head. Holes are drilled in the radial head, and the torn end of the tendon is trimmed and cleaned. The provider then sutures the tendon tightly onto the holes. In the case of a triceps tendon reinsertion, the provider makes an incision on the posterior side of the upper arm and exposes the triceps tendon. Similar to the biceps tendon reinsertion, the provider drills holes in the olecranon, pulls the trimmed end of the triceps tendon, and sutures it onto the holes. If necessary, a tendon graft, typically obtained from the forearm, may be used to facilitate the reinsertion. The operative site is closed in layers, and the arm is immobilized with a splint.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 24342 is performed on patients who have experienced a rupture or separation of the distal end of a biceps or triceps tendon. The procedure is typically indicated when conservative treatments have failed to provide adequate healing or when the patient’s condition requires surgical intervention. The healthcare provider must assess the patient’s specific circumstances and determine the appropriateness of using CPT 24342.

5. When to use CPT code 24342

CPT code 24342 should be used when a healthcare provider performs the reinsertion of a ruptured biceps or triceps tendon, specifically the distal end, with or without a tendon graft. It is important to accurately document the details of the procedure to support the use of this code.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 24342, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis indicating the rupture or separation of the distal end of the biceps or triceps tendon
• Details of the procedure, including the use of a tendon graft if applicable
• Date of the surgery
• Start and end time of the procedure
• Operative findings and any additional procedures performed
• Postoperative care instructions
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 24342, ensure that the procedure performed aligns with the description of the code. It is important to accurately document the details of the surgery and any additional procedures performed. There are no specific guidelines regarding reporting CPT 24342 with other codes, but it is essential to follow the appropriate coding guidelines and modifiers if applicable.

8. Historical information

CPT 24342 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 24342

There are several similar codes to CPT 24342 that describe other repair, revision, and/or reconstruction procedures on the humerus (upper arm) and elbow. Some examples include:

• CPT 24341: Reinsertion of ruptured biceps or triceps tendon, proximal, with or without tendon graft
• CPT 24345: Reinsertion of ruptured biceps or triceps tendon, complete or partial, distal, with tendon graft
• CPT 24346: Reinsertion of ruptured biceps or triceps tendon, complete or partial, proximal, with tendon graft
• CPT 24357: Tendon lengthening or shortening (e.g., Achilles tendon); multiple, same tendon
• CPT 24358: Tendon lengthening or shortening (e.g., Achilles tendon); multiple, different tendon

9. Examples

1. A patient with a ruptured biceps tendon undergoes surgery for the reinsertion of the distal end of the tendon without a tendon graft.
2. A patient with a ruptured triceps tendon undergoes surgery for the reinsertion of the distal end of the tendon with a tendon graft.
3. A patient with a partially torn biceps tendon undergoes surgery for the reinsertion of the distal end of the tendon without a tendon graft.
4. A patient with a completely torn triceps tendon undergoes surgery for the reinsertion of the distal end of the tendon with a tendon graft.
5. A patient with a ruptured biceps tendon undergoes surgery for the reinsertion of the distal end of the tendon with a tendon graft.
6. A patient with a ruptured triceps tendon undergoes surgery for the reinsertion of the distal end of the tendon without a tendon graft.
7. A patient with a partially torn biceps tendon undergoes surgery for the reinsertion of the distal end of the tendon with a tendon graft.
8. A patient with a completely torn triceps tendon undergoes surgery for the reinsertion of the distal end of the tendon without a tendon graft.
9. A patient with a ruptured biceps tendon undergoes surgery for the reinsertion of the distal end of the tendon without a tendon graft.
10. A patient with a ruptured triceps tendon undergoes surgery for the reinsertion of the distal end of the tendon with a tendon graft.