How To Use CPT Code 24675

CPT code 24675 describes the closed treatment of an ulnar fracture at the proximal end, such as the olecranon or coronoid process, 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 24675?

CPT 24675 is used to describe the closed treatment of an ulnar fracture at the proximal end, specifically the olecranon or coronoid process, with manipulation. This code is used when a healthcare provider manually realigns the fractured bones and applies a splint to maintain the position of the fracture until it heals.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 24675 is: ‘Closed treatment of ulnar fracture, proximal end (eg, olecranon or coronoid process[es]) with manipulation.’

3. Procedure

When performing CPT 24675, the healthcare provider begins by assessing the alignment of the ulnar fracture, specifically the olecranon or coronoid process, using an X-ray. Once the patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized, the provider manually manipulates the fractured bones to realign them. After the manipulation, a splint is applied to maintain the position of the fracture and support the healing process.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 24675 is used for patients who have a fracture of the ulna at the proximal end, specifically the olecranon or coronoid process. The procedure involves closed treatment, which means that no surgical incision is made. The manipulation of the fracture is performed to restore normal anatomy and alignment. This code is used when the fracture is treated with a splint to maintain the position of the bones during the healing process.

5. When to use CPT code 24675

CPT code 24675 should be used when a healthcare provider performs closed treatment of an ulnar fracture at the proximal end, such as the olecranon or coronoid process, with manipulation. This code should not be used for fractures at other locations or when surgical intervention is required.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 24675, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of an ulnar fracture at the proximal end
• Evidence of appropriate prepping and anesthesia
• Documentation of the manipulation performed to realign the fractured bones
• Description of the splint applied to maintain the position of the fracture

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 24675, ensure that the procedure performed meets the criteria specified in the code description. This includes the closed treatment of an ulnar fracture at the proximal end, such as the olecranon or coronoid process, with manipulation. It is important to follow the documentation requirements and provide accurate information to support the claim.

8. Historical information

CPT code 24675 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 24675

There are several similar codes to CPT 24675 that describe different procedures for the treatment of ulnar fractures. These include:

• CPT 24685: Open treatment of ulnar fracture, proximal end (eg, olecranon or coronoid process[es]), includes internal fixation, when performed
• CPT 24500: Closed treatment of humeral supracondylar or transcondylar fracture; without manipulation
• CPT 24505: Closed treatment of humeral supracondylar or transcondylar fracture; with manipulation
• CPT 24530: Closed treatment of humeral shaft fracture; without manipulation
• CPT 24535: Closed treatment of humeral shaft fracture; with manipulation

9. Examples

1. A patient presents with a fractured olecranon process of the ulna. The healthcare provider performs closed treatment by manually manipulating the bones and applying a splint to maintain the position of the fracture.
2. An individual sustains a coronoid process fracture of the ulna. The healthcare provider performs closed treatment by realigning the fractured bones through manipulation and applies a splint for stabilization.
3. A patient fractures the proximal end of the ulna, specifically the olecranon process. The healthcare provider performs closed treatment by manipulating the bones back into alignment and applies a splint to support the healing process.
4. An individual presents with a fractured coronoid process of the ulna. The healthcare provider performs closed treatment by manipulating the bones to restore normal anatomy and applies a splint for immobilization.
5. A patient sustains an ulnar fracture at the proximal end, specifically the olecranon process. The healthcare provider performs closed treatment by manually manipulating the bones and applies a splint to maintain the alignment during the healing process.
6. An individual fractures the coronoid process of the ulna. The healthcare provider performs closed treatment by manipulating the bones to realign them and applies a splint for stabilization and support.
7. A patient presents with a fractured olecranon process of the ulna. The healthcare provider performs closed treatment by manipulating the bones to restore normal alignment and applies a splint to immobilize the fracture.
8. An individual sustains a coronoid process fracture of the ulna. The healthcare provider performs closed treatment by manually manipulating the bones and applies a splint to maintain the position of the fracture during the healing process.
9. A patient fractures the proximal end of the ulna, specifically the olecranon process. The healthcare provider performs closed treatment by manipulating the bones to realign them and applies a splint for stabilization and support.
10. An individual presents with a fractured coronoid process of the ulna. The healthcare provider performs closed treatment by manipulating the bones to restore normal anatomy and applies a splint to immobilize the fracture.