How To Use CPT Code 24665

CPT code 24665 describes the open treatment of a fracture at the head or neck of the radius, which is one of the bones in the forearm. 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 24665?

CPT 24665 is used to describe the open treatment of a fracture at the head or neck of the radius. This procedure involves making an incision at the elbow to access the fracture site. The provider may then excise a portion of bone and/or apply screws or wires to hold the fracture in place.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 24665 is: ‘Open treatment of radial head or neck fracture, includes internal fixation or radial head excision, when performed.’

3. Procedure

1. The patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized.
2. The provider makes an incision over the elbow and dissects down to the bone.
3. The fracture is reduced, and if necessary, the radial head is excised.
4. Internal fixation with screws or wires may be applied to stabilize the fracture.
5. The provider checks the alignment of the fracture using an X-ray.
6. The area is irrigated, bleeding is checked, instruments are removed, and the incision is closed.
7. A splint is applied to support the healing process.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 24665 is performed on patients with a fracture at the head or neck of the radius. This procedure is typically indicated when the fracture requires open treatment, which involves making an incision to access the fracture site. The provider may also perform internal fixation or excise the radial head, depending on the specific circumstances of the fracture.

5. When to use CPT code 24665

CPT code 24665 should be used when the provider performs open treatment of a fracture at the head or neck of the radius. This code includes internal fixation or radial head excision, if performed. It is important to note that CPT code 24665 should not be reported if the procedure does not involve open treatment or if the fracture is located in a different area of the arm or elbow.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 24665, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for open treatment of the radial head or neck fracture
• Details of the procedure, including the incision, reduction of the fracture, excision of the radial head (if performed), and internal fixation (if performed)
• Date of the procedure
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 24665, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for open treatment of a fracture at the head or neck of the radius. It is important to accurately document the details of the procedure and any additional services provided. CPT code 24665 should not be reported if the procedure does not involve open treatment or if the fracture is located in a different area of the arm or elbow.

8. Historical information

CPT code 24665 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been changes to the code over the years, including updates to the description and inclusion of internal fixation or radial head excision.

9. Examples

1. A patient sustains a fracture at the head of the radius and undergoes open treatment with internal fixation using screws.
2. A provider performs open treatment of a fracture at the neck of the radius and excises the radial head.
3. A patient presents with a fracture at the head of the radius, and the provider performs open treatment without the need for internal fixation or radial head excision.
4. A provider performs open treatment of a fracture at the neck of the radius and applies wires for stabilization.
5. A patient fractures the head of the radius and undergoes open treatment with internal fixation using a plate and screws.
6. A provider performs open treatment of a fracture at the neck of the radius and excises a portion of the radial head.
7. A patient sustains a fracture at the head of the radius and undergoes open treatment without the need for internal fixation or radial head excision.
8. A provider performs open treatment of a fracture at the neck of the radius and applies screws for stabilization.
9. A patient presents with a fracture at the head of the radius and undergoes open treatment with internal fixation using wires.
10. A provider performs open treatment of a fracture at the neck of the radius and excises the radial head, as well as applies screws for stabilization.