How To Use CPT Code 24587

CPT code 24587 describes the open treatment of periarticular fracture and/or dislocation of the elbow with implant arthroplasty. 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 24587?

CPT code 24587 is used to describe the open treatment of periarticular fracture and/or dislocation of the elbow with implant arthroplasty. This procedure involves the use of one or more implants to treat fractures or dislocations related to the elbow joint. The provider accesses the treatment area through an opening in the skin, such as an incision over the fracture or dislocation site, and aligns the bones in the proper position. The provider then prepares the implant site and inserts the implant, securing it in place while protecting nerves and ligaments. The provider checks the movement of the elbow and closes the surgical site.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 24587 is: ‘Open treatment of periarticular fracture and/or dislocation of the elbow (fracture distal humerus and proximal ulna and/or proximal radius) with implant arthroplasty.’

3. Procedure

When performing the open treatment of periarticular fracture and/or dislocation of the elbow with implant arthroplasty (CPT code 24587), the provider follows a specific procedure:

1. The patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized.
2. The provider accesses the treatment area through one or more openings in the skin, such as by making an incision over the fracture or dislocation site.
3. The provider dissects through subcutaneous tissue and muscle to expose the bones.
4. If necessary, the provider aligns the bones in the proper position.
5. The provider removes portions of bone to be replaced and prepares the implant site, such as by debridement or making canals to make space for the implant.
6. The provider inserts the implant, securing it in place while protecting and preserving nerves and ligaments.
7. The provider checks the movement of the elbow to ensure proper function.
8. The provider closes the surgical site.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT code 24587 is used for patients who require open treatment of periarticular fracture and/or dislocation of the elbow with implant arthroplasty. This procedure is performed when the patient has a fracture involving the distal humerus and proximal ulna and/or proximal radius, specifically the ends near the elbow. The provider must assess the patient’s condition and determine the need for this specific treatment. The procedure is typically performed by a qualified healthcare professional who has the necessary expertise and training in performing open treatments of elbow fractures and dislocations.

5. When to use CPT code 24587

CPT code 24587 should be used when the provider performs the open treatment of periarticular fracture and/or dislocation of the elbow with implant arthroplasty. This code is appropriate when the procedure involves the use of one or more implants to treat fractures or dislocations related to the elbow joint. It is important to ensure that the documentation supports the use of this specific code and that the procedure meets the criteria outlined in the official description.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 24587, the healthcare professional must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of periarticular fracture and/or dislocation of the elbow
• Details of the procedure performed, including the specific implants used
• Date of the procedure
• Start and end time of the procedure
• Any additional procedures or treatments performed during the same session
• Any complications or unexpected findings
• Signature of the healthcare professional performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 24587, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria outlined in the official description. It is important to accurately report the procedure code and any applicable modifiers. Follow the specific billing guidelines provided by the payer to ensure proper reimbursement. It is also important to review any bundling or unbundling rules that may apply to this procedure.

8. Historical information

CPT code 24587 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 periarticular fracture of the elbow undergoes open treatment with implant arthroplasty to align and stabilize the bones.
2. A patient with a dislocated elbow undergoes open treatment with implant arthroplasty to restore proper joint function.
3. A patient with a complex fracture involving the distal humerus, proximal ulna, and proximal radius undergoes open treatment with implant arthroplasty to repair the fracture and restore normal bone alignment.
4. A patient with a severe periarticular fracture and dislocation of the elbow undergoes open treatment with implant arthroplasty to reconstruct the joint and improve function.
5. A patient with a chronic elbow dislocation undergoes open treatment with implant arthroplasty to stabilize the joint and prevent further dislocations.
6. A patient with a nonunion fracture of the elbow undergoes open treatment with implant arthroplasty to promote bone healing and restore function.
7. A patient with a malunion fracture of the elbow undergoes open treatment with implant arthroplasty to correct the alignment and improve joint function.
8. A patient with a traumatic elbow injury undergoes open treatment with implant arthroplasty to repair the damage and restore normal joint function.