How To Use CPT Code 24685

CPT code 24685 describes the open treatment of an ulnar fracture at the proximal end, which includes internal fixation if performed. 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 24685?

CPT 24685 is used to describe the open treatment of an ulnar fracture at the proximal end, which involves the use of internal fixation if necessary. This code is used when a healthcare provider performs a surgical procedure to treat a fracture of the ulna bone near the elbow.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 24685 is: ‘Open treatment of ulnar fracture, proximal end (eg, olecranon or coronoid process[es]), includes internal fixation, when performed.’

3. Procedure

1. The patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized for the procedure.
2. The healthcare provider makes an incision over the elbow and dissects down to the bone.
3. The provider reduces the fracture, aligning the broken bone fragments.
4. If necessary, the provider applies internal fixation using screws or wires to stabilize the fracture.
5. An X-ray is taken to ensure proper alignment of the fracture.
6. The provider irrigates the area, checks for bleeding, removes any instruments, and closes the incision.
7. A splint may be applied to immobilize the area and aid in the healing process.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 24685 is used for patients who have a fracture of the ulna bone at the proximal end, such as the olecranon or coronoid process. The procedure involves open treatment, which means it is performed through a surgical incision. Internal fixation, such as the use of screws or wires, may be necessary to stabilize the fracture. This code should not be reported in conjunction with codes 24100-24102, which are used for other types of ulnar fracture treatments.

5. When to use CPT code 24685

CPT code 24685 should be used when a healthcare provider performs open treatment for an ulnar fracture at the proximal end, including internal fixation if necessary. This code is specific to fractures of the ulna bone near the elbow and should not be used for other types of fractures or treatments.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 24685, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of an ulnar fracture at the proximal end
• Description of the procedure performed, including the use of internal fixation if applicable
• Date of the procedure
• Details of the reduction and alignment of the fracture
• Confirmation of proper alignment through an X-ray
• Documentation of any additional procedures performed, such as irrigation or splint application
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 24685, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for open treatment of an ulnar fracture at the proximal end, including internal fixation if performed. It is important to note that this code should not be reported in conjunction with codes 24100-24102, which are used for other types of ulnar fracture treatments.

8. Historical information

CPT code 24685 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There was a code change on January 1, 2008, which clarified that the code specifically refers to the treatment of an ulnar fracture at the proximal end, including the olecranon process, with or without internal or external fixation.

9. Examples

1. A patient sustains an ulnar fracture at the proximal end near the olecranon process. The healthcare provider performs open treatment, reducing the fracture and applying internal fixation with screws.
2. Another patient presents with a fracture of the ulna at the proximal end near the coronoid process. The healthcare provider performs open treatment, aligning the fracture and using wires for internal fixation.
3. A third patient has a complex ulnar fracture at the proximal end involving both the olecranon and coronoid processes. The healthcare provider performs open treatment, reducing the fracture and using a combination of screws and wires for internal fixation.
4. Yet another patient has a simple ulnar fracture at the proximal end near the olecranon process. The healthcare provider performs open treatment, reducing the fracture and applying internal fixation with a plate and screws.
5. A final patient presents with a comminuted ulnar fracture at the proximal end near the coronoid process. The healthcare provider performs open treatment, reducing the fracture and using a combination of screws, wires, and a plate for internal fixation.