How To Use CPT Code 24655

CPT code 24655 describes the closed treatment of a fracture at the head or neck of the radius, one of the bones in the forearm, with manipulation. 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 24655?

CPT 24655 is used to describe the closed treatment of a fracture at the head or neck of the radius, which is one of the bones in the forearm near the elbow. The procedure involves manually realigning the fractured bones and applying a splint to maintain the proper position until the fracture heals.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 24655 is: ‘Closed treatment of radial head or neck fracture with manipulation.’

3. Procedure

During the procedure for CPT 24655, the healthcare provider assesses the alignment of the fracture using an X-ray. If the fracture requires manipulation, the provider manually moves the fractured bones back into their proper position. Once the alignment is achieved, a splint is applied to keep the bones in place and promote healing.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 24655 is used for fractures at the head or neck of the radius that require closed treatment with manipulation. This procedure is performed when the fracture can be realigned without the need for surgical incision. It is important to note that if the provider performs the procedure without manipulation, a different CPT code should be used.

5. When to use CPT code 24655

CPT code 24655 should be used when a healthcare provider performs closed treatment of a fracture at the head or neck of the radius with manipulation. It is important to ensure that the procedure involves both the manipulation of the fractured bones and the application of a splint to maintain alignment.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 24655, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for closed treatment with manipulation
• Specific details of the procedure, including the manipulation technique used
• Date of the procedure
• Start and end time of the procedure
• Any additional procedures or treatments performed during the same session
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 24655, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for closed treatment with manipulation. The healthcare provider should document the manipulation technique used and the application of a splint. It is also important to follow any specific billing guidelines provided by the payer or coding guidelines.

8. Historical information

CPT code 24655 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 24655

There are several similar codes to CPT 24655 that describe different procedures for the treatment of fractures and dislocations in the upper arm and elbow. Some similar codes include:

• CPT 24650: Closed treatment of radial head or neck fracture without manipulation
• CPT 24665: Closed treatment of radial shaft fracture
• CPT 24666: Open treatment of radial shaft fracture with or without internal or external fixation
• CPT 24670: Closed treatment of radial head or neck fracture with internal fixation
• CPT 24675: Open treatment of radial head or neck fracture with or without internal fixation

9. Examples

1. A patient presents with a fracture at the head of the radius. The healthcare provider performs closed treatment with manipulation, realigning the bones and applying a splint to maintain alignment.
2. Another patient has a fracture at the neck of the radius. The healthcare provider performs closed treatment with manipulation, manually realigning the bones and applying a splint to keep them in place.
3. A third patient sustains a fracture at the head of the radius. The healthcare provider performs closed treatment with manipulation, manipulating the bones back into alignment and applying a splint for stabilization.
4. A fourth patient has a fracture at the neck of the radius. The healthcare provider performs closed treatment with manipulation, realigning the bones and applying a splint to support the healing process.
5. A fifth patient presents with a fracture at the head of the radius. The healthcare provider performs closed treatment with manipulation, manually realigning the bones and applying a splint to maintain proper alignment.
6. Another patient has a fracture at the neck of the radius. The healthcare provider performs closed treatment with manipulation, manipulating the bones back into alignment and applying a splint for stabilization.
7. A seventh patient sustains a fracture at the head of the radius. The healthcare provider performs closed treatment with manipulation, realigning the bones and applying a splint to support the healing process.
8. An eighth patient has a fracture at the neck of the radius. The healthcare provider performs closed treatment with manipulation, manually realigning the bones and applying a splint to maintain proper alignment.
9. A ninth patient presents with a fracture at the head of the radius. The healthcare provider performs closed treatment with manipulation, manipulating the bones back into alignment and applying a splint for stabilization.
10. A tenth patient has a fracture at the neck of the radius. The healthcare provider performs closed treatment with manipulation, realigning the bones and applying a splint to support the healing process.