How To Use CPT Code 24931

CPT 24931 describes the procedure for amputation of the upper arm through the humerus with the insertion of an implant. 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 24931?

CPT 24931 is a code used to describe the surgical procedure of amputation of the upper arm through the humerus with the insertion of an implant. This procedure is performed to either maintain the length of the amputated limb or to prepare for the placement of an artificial limb in the future.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 24931 is: ‘Amputation, arm through humerus with implant.’

3. Procedure

1. The patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized for the procedure.
2. The surgeon makes an incision just below the area of the resection.
3. The incision is extended down to the level of the bone, and any blood vessels are ligated and nerves are retracted.
4. The humerus is cut, and the edges are rasped with an electric burr to ensure smoothness.
5. An implant is inserted into the center of the bone in the intramedullary space to maintain the length of the amputated limb or prepare for future placement of an artificial limb.
6. The muscles and skin are cut, leaving sufficient margin to cover the wound.
7. The wound is covered with muscle, and the muscle and fascia are sutured.
8. The skin is closed with sutures after the placement of a drain.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 24931 is performed on patients who require amputation of the upper arm through the humerus with the insertion of an implant. This procedure is typically indicated for patients with severe trauma, tumors, or other conditions that necessitate the removal of the arm. The decision to use an implant is based on the need to maintain limb length or prepare for future prosthetic limb placement.

5. When to use CPT code 24931

CPT code 24931 should be used when a surgeon performs an amputation of the upper arm through the humerus and inserts an implant. This code accurately represents the specific procedure being performed and allows for proper documentation and billing.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 24931, the surgeon must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for amputation with implant
• Details of the surgical procedure, including the specific incision site and approach
• Description of the implant used
• Date of the procedure
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the surgeon performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 24931, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria outlined in the official description. It is important to accurately document the details of the procedure and any additional services provided. CPT code 24931 should not be reported with other codes unless additional procedures were performed during the same surgical session.

8. Historical information

CPT 24931 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. It was initially classified as an inpatient-only (IPO) procedure in 2017 but was later removed from the IPO list in 2021. However, as of 2022, it has been added back to the IPO list.

9. Examples

1. A patient with severe trauma to the upper arm undergoes amputation through the humerus with the insertion of an implant to maintain limb length.
2. A patient with a malignant tumor in the upper arm requires amputation through the humerus with the insertion of an implant to prepare for future prosthetic limb placement.
3. A patient with a chronic infection in the upper arm undergoes amputation through the humerus with the insertion of an implant to remove the affected limb.
4. A patient with a congenital limb deformity undergoes amputation through the humerus with the insertion of an implant to improve functionality and mobility.
5. A patient with a non-healing fracture in the upper arm undergoes amputation through the humerus with the insertion of an implant to promote healing and prevent further complications.
6. A patient with a recurrent tumor in the upper arm undergoes amputation through the humerus with the insertion of an implant to ensure complete removal of the cancerous tissue.
7. A patient with a severe infection in the upper arm requires amputation through the humerus with the insertion of an implant to prevent the spread of the infection to other parts of the body.
8. A patient with a degenerative joint disease in the upper arm undergoes amputation through the humerus with the insertion of an implant to alleviate pain and improve quality of life.
9. A patient with a non-functional upper arm due to a neurological condition undergoes amputation through the humerus with the insertion of an implant to improve overall mobility and independence.
10. A patient with a failed previous surgical procedure in the upper arm undergoes amputation through the humerus with the insertion of an implant to address complications and restore functionality.