How To Use CPT Code 24495

CPT code 24495 describes the procedure of decompression fasciotomy in the forearm, along with exploration of the brachial artery. 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 24495?

CPT code 24495 is used to describe the surgical procedure known as decompression fasciotomy in the forearm, which involves relieving pressure and increasing blood flow in a compartment affected by compartment syndrome. The procedure also includes exploration of the brachial artery to check for any signs of damage.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 24495 is: ‘Decompression fasciotomy, forearm, with brachial artery exploration.’

3. Procedure

During the decompression fasciotomy procedure, the healthcare provider makes an incision on the anterior aspect of the forearm after the patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized. The provider then excises the fascia and checks the compartment pressure of the compressed deep flexor muscles. If necessary, the provider decompresses the compartment to relieve pressure. Additionally, the brachial artery is examined for any areas of reduced circulation. The provider may also perform debridement of damaged or nonviable muscle or nerve tissue to reduce pressure on neurovascular structures. The wounds may be left open or closed by suturing the soft tissues in layers at the end of the procedure.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT code 24495 is used when a patient presents with compartment syndrome in the forearm, which is a critical build-up of pressure due to fluid accumulation within a membrane-covered compartment. The procedure is performed to relieve pressure on the structures within the compartment and restore blood supply. The provider must assess the patient’s condition and determine the need for decompression fasciotomy. The exploration of the brachial artery is also a qualifying circumstance for this code.

5. When to use CPT code 24495

CPT code 24495 should be used when a healthcare provider performs decompression fasciotomy in the forearm, along with exploration of the brachial artery. This code is appropriate when the procedure is performed to relieve pressure and increase blood flow in the affected compartment due to compartment syndrome. It is important to note that this code should not be reported if the procedure was not performed or if a different procedure was performed instead.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 24495, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of compartment syndrome
• Details of the decompression fasciotomy procedure performed
• Documentation of the exploration of the brachial artery
• Any additional procedures performed, such as debridement
• Details of wound closure, if applicable
• Any complications or unexpected findings during the procedure
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 24495, ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. It is important to accurately document the procedure performed and any additional procedures or explorations. CPT code 24495 should not be reported if the procedure was not performed or if a different procedure was performed instead. It is also important to follow any specific billing guidelines provided by the payer or coding guidelines.

8. Historical information

CPT code 24495 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 24495

There are several similar codes to CPT code 24495 that describe related procedures. These include:

• CPT 24490: Fasciotomy, forearm and/or wrist, with or without debridement
• CPT 24498: Fasciotomy, thigh and/or knee, with or without debridement
• CPT 25115: Fasciotomy, foot and/or toe, with or without debridement
• CPT 27606: Fasciotomy, leg and/or ankle, with or without debridement
• CPT 27607: Fasciotomy, leg and/or ankle, with or without debridement; with exploration, with or without repair

9. Examples

1. A patient presents with compartment syndrome in the forearm following a traumatic injury. The healthcare provider performs decompression fasciotomy and explores the brachial artery to restore blood flow.
2. After a surgical procedure in the forearm, a patient develops compartment syndrome. The healthcare provider performs decompression fasciotomy and explores the brachial artery to relieve pressure and assess circulation.
3. A patient with a history of forearm compartment syndrome experiences a recurrence of symptoms. The healthcare provider performs decompression fasciotomy and explores the brachial artery to alleviate pressure and ensure adequate blood flow.
4. Following a forearm fracture, a patient develops compartment syndrome. The healthcare provider performs decompression fasciotomy and explores the brachial artery to relieve pressure and assess vascular status.
5. A patient with a forearm infection develops compartment syndrome. The healthcare provider performs decompression fasciotomy and explores the brachial artery to relieve pressure and assess blood flow.
6. After a forearm surgery, a patient experiences symptoms of compartment syndrome. The healthcare provider performs decompression fasciotomy and explores the brachial artery to alleviate pressure and assess vascular status.
7. A patient with a forearm muscle tear develops compartment syndrome. The healthcare provider performs decompression fasciotomy and explores the brachial artery to relieve pressure and assess circulation.
8. Following a forearm laceration, a patient develops compartment syndrome. The healthcare provider performs decompression fasciotomy and explores the brachial artery to alleviate pressure and assess blood flow.
9. A patient with a forearm tumor experiences symptoms of compartment syndrome. The healthcare provider performs decompression fasciotomy and explores the brachial artery to relieve pressure and assess vascular status.
10. After a forearm vascular injury, a patient develops compartment syndrome. The healthcare provider performs decompression fasciotomy and explores the brachial artery to alleviate pressure and assess circulation.