How To Use CPT Code 24366

CPT code 24366 describes the procedure of arthroplasty, specifically the radial head, with the use of an implant. 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 24366?

CPT 24366 is a code used to describe the surgical procedure of arthroplasty, specifically involving the radial head, with the use of an implant. This procedure aims to provide the patient with a smooth and painless movement of the elbow by fitting an artificial prosthesis cap on the upper end of the radius.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 24366 is: ‘Arthroplasty, radial head with implant.’

3. Procedure

1. The patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized.
2. A longitudinal curved incision is made over the protruded area, the medial condyle, toward the midline of the elbow.
3. The incision is made down to the level of the joint capsule, taking care to avoid damage to blood vessels and nerve tissues.
4. The joint capsule is excised, exposing the bony surface of the joint.
5. The head of the radius is accessed by incising ligaments above it.
6. The surface of the radius is rasped and smoothed using a burr or other sharp object.
7. An artificial surface cap is fitted on the top of the radius and nailed in the center of the radius head.
8. The radius is realigned into the depression of the humerus, and the ligaments are sutured back around the joint.
9. The incision is closed in layers, and a splint is placed while the elbow is flexed.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 24366 is performed on patients who require arthroplasty of the radial head with the use of an implant. This procedure is typically indicated for individuals experiencing pain and limited mobility in the elbow joint due to conditions such as fractures, arthritis, or other injuries affecting the radial head. The decision to perform this procedure is made by the healthcare provider based on the patient’s specific condition and medical history.

5. When to use CPT code 24366

CPT code 24366 should be used when a healthcare provider performs arthroplasty of the radial head with the use of an implant. This code is appropriate for cases where the provider fits an artificial prosthesis cap on the upper end of the radius to improve elbow movement and alleviate pain. It is important to ensure that the procedure performed aligns with the description provided by CPT code 24366.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 24366, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for arthroplasty of the radial head
• Details of the procedure performed, including the use of an implant
• Date of the procedure
• Any additional relevant information, such as complications or specific techniques used
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 24366, ensure that the procedure performed aligns with the description provided. It is important to accurately document the details of the procedure and any additional relevant information. Follow the appropriate coding and billing guidelines provided by the payer to ensure accurate reimbursement for the services rendered.

8. Historical information

CPT code 24366 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. Examples

1. A patient with a radial head fracture undergoes arthroplasty with the use of an implant to restore elbow function.
2. An individual with severe arthritis in the elbow joint undergoes arthroplasty of the radial head with an implant to alleviate pain and improve mobility.
3. A patient who sustained a traumatic injury to the radial head undergoes arthroplasty with an implant to repair the damaged joint.
4. An individual with a chronic condition affecting the radial head undergoes arthroplasty with an implant to improve their quality of life and restore elbow function.
5. A patient with limited elbow mobility due to a congenital abnormality undergoes arthroplasty with an implant to improve their range of motion.
6. An individual with a history of failed conservative treatments for radial head pathology undergoes arthroplasty with an implant to address their persistent symptoms.
7. A patient with a radial head fracture that did not heal properly undergoes arthroplasty with an implant to correct the deformity and restore elbow function.
8. An individual with a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the radial head undergoes arthroplasty with an implant to alleviate pain and improve joint function.
9. A patient with a history of recurrent dislocations of the radial head undergoes arthroplasty with an implant to stabilize the joint and prevent further dislocations.
10. An individual with a traumatic injury resulting in severe damage to the radial head undergoes arthroplasty with an implant to reconstruct the joint and restore elbow function.