How To Use CPT Code 24505

CPT code 24505 describes the closed treatment of a fracture of the humeral shaft, which is the bone in the upper arm. 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 24505?

CPT 24505 is used to describe the closed treatment of a fracture of the humeral shaft without making an incision. The provider manipulates the fracture to restore alignment and may use a traction device to apply additional force. This code is used when the provider applies a cast or splint after confirming the alignment of the fracture on imaging.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 24505 is: ‘Closed treatment of humeral shaft fracture with manipulation, with or without skeletal traction.’

3. Procedure

During the procedure for CPT 24505, the provider adjusts the fractured fragment by exerting pushing or pulling force on the humerus to reduce the fracture. This manipulation is done without making a surgical incision. The provider may also apply skeletal traction to aid in the reduction of the fracture. Once the alignment is confirmed on imaging, the provider applies a cast or splint to immobilize the fracture and promote healing.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 24505 is used for patients who have a fracture of the humeral shaft that requires closed treatment without making an incision. The provider must manipulate the fracture to restore alignment and may use skeletal traction if necessary. This code is specific to the treatment of humeral shaft fractures and should not be used for fractures in other locations.

5. When to use CPT code 24505

CPT code 24505 should be used when the provider performs closed treatment of a fracture of the humeral shaft without making an incision. This code is appropriate when the provider manipulates the fracture to restore alignment and applies a cast or splint to immobilize the fracture. It should not be used for fractures in other locations or when an incision is made during the treatment.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 24505, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of a humeral shaft fracture
• Details of the closed treatment procedure, including manipulation and use of skeletal traction if applicable
• Confirmation of alignment on imaging
• Type of cast or splint applied

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 24505, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for closed treatment of a humeral shaft fracture without making an incision. It is important to document the necessary information to support the claim. Modifier 57, Decision for surgery, may be used if the provider made a decision for surgery based on the evaluation and management (E/M) service. Additional supplies of casting materials may also be reported separately using the appropriate HCPCS codes.

8. Historical information

CPT 24505 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient presents with a fracture of the humeral shaft. The provider manipulates the fracture to restore alignment and applies a cast to immobilize the fracture.
2. A patient sustains a humeral shaft fracture and requires closed treatment. The provider uses skeletal traction to aid in the reduction of the fracture and applies a splint for immobilization.
3. A patient is diagnosed with a humeral shaft fracture. The provider performs closed treatment without making an incision and applies a cast to promote healing.
4. A patient fractures their humeral shaft and undergoes closed treatment. The provider manipulates the fracture to restore alignment and applies a brace for immobilization.
5. A patient presents with a humeral shaft fracture. The provider performs closed treatment, including manipulation and the application of a splint to immobilize the fracture.
6. A patient sustains a fracture of the humeral shaft and requires closed treatment. The provider manipulates the fracture to restore alignment and applies a cast for immobilization.
7. A patient is diagnosed with a humeral shaft fracture and undergoes closed treatment. The provider uses skeletal traction to aid in the reduction of the fracture and applies a brace for immobilization.
8. A patient fractures their humeral shaft and requires closed treatment. The provider manipulates the fracture to restore alignment and applies a splint to promote healing.
9. A patient presents with a humeral shaft fracture. The provider performs closed treatment without making an incision and applies a cast for immobilization.
10. A patient sustains a fracture of the humeral shaft and undergoes closed treatment. The provider manipulates the fracture to restore alignment and applies a brace for immobilization.