How To Use CPT Code 24400

CPT code 24400 describes a surgical procedure known as osteotomy of the humerus. 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 24400?

CPT 24400 is a code used to describe the surgical procedure of osteotomy of the humerus. This procedure involves the excision of a segment of the humerus bone in the upper arm, with or without internal fixation. The purpose of this procedure is to realign the bone and enable external rotation of the arm in the presence of a congenital deformity. The provider may also apply hardware, such as plates and screws, to strengthen the repair if necessary.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 24400 is: ‘Osteotomy, humerus, with or without internal fixation.’

3. Procedure

1. The patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized.
2. The provider makes an incision over the lower part of the humerus or over the upper part of the humeral shaft.
3. The affected area is exposed, and a bone cutting instrument is used to remove the affected portion of the bone from the humerus.
4. The provider realigns the bones and fixes the repair with a plate and screws, if necessary.
5. The area is irrigated, checked for bleeding, and any instruments are removed.
6. The incision is closed, and a cast is applied.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 24400 is performed on patients with a congenital deformity of the humerus that requires realignment of the bone. The procedure is typically performed by a qualified healthcare professional, such as an orthopedic surgeon. Internal fixation may be used if necessary to stabilize the bone. The patient must meet the specific criteria for this procedure, as determined by the provider.

5. When to use CPT code 24400

CPT code 24400 should be used when performing an osteotomy of the humerus with or without internal fixation. It is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. If the procedure involves a different type of repair, revision, or reconstruction of the humerus or upper arm, a different CPT code should be used.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 24400, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for osteotomy of the humerus
• Details of the procedure, including the specific approach used and any internal fixation applied
• Date of the procedure
• Any complications or unexpected findings during the procedure
• Post-operative care instructions
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 24400, ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. It is important to accurately document the details of the procedure and any additional services provided. CPT code 24400 should not be reported with other codes in the range 24300-24498 unless the specific criteria for each code are met.

8. Historical information

CPT code 24400 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 24400

There are several similar codes to CPT 24400 that describe different repair, revision, and reconstruction procedures on the humerus and elbow. These include codes in the range 24300-24498. It is important to review the specific code descriptions and documentation requirements to accurately report the procedure performed.

9. Examples

1. An orthopedic surgeon performs an osteotomy of the humerus with internal fixation to correct a congenital deformity in a pediatric patient.
2. A patient with a congenital deformity of the humerus undergoes an osteotomy without internal fixation to realign the bone and improve arm function.
3. An adult patient with a congenital deformity of the humerus undergoes an osteotomy with internal fixation using plates and screws to stabilize the bone.
4. A provider performs an osteotomy of the humerus with internal fixation as part of a revision procedure to correct a previous unsuccessful repair.
5. An orthopedic surgeon performs an osteotomy of the humerus without internal fixation to realign the bone and improve range of motion in a patient with a congenital deformity.
6. A patient with a congenital deformity of the humerus undergoes an osteotomy with internal fixation using nails and wires to stabilize the bone.
7. A provider performs an osteotomy of the humerus with internal fixation using plates and screws to correct a malunion of the bone.
8. An orthopedic surgeon performs an osteotomy of the humerus without internal fixation to realign the bone and improve arm function in a patient with a congenital deformity.
9. A patient with a congenital deformity of the humerus undergoes an osteotomy with internal fixation using nails and wires to stabilize the bone and promote healing.
10. A provider performs an osteotomy of the humerus with internal fixation using plates and screws to correct a nonunion of the bone.