How To Use CPT Code 25230

CPT 25230 describes the excision of the radial styloid, which is a separate procedure performed on the forearm and wrist. 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 25230?

CPT 25230 is a code used to describe the excision of the radial styloid, which is a bony projection on the lateral surface of the radius bone at the wrist. This procedure involves the removal of the styloid process to alleviate symptoms associated with arthritis or impingement conditions.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 25230 is: ‘Radial styloidectomy (separate procedure).’ This procedure involves the excision of the styloid process of the radius bone.

3. Procedure

During the procedure, the patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized. The provider makes a side incision on the wrist towards the side of the thumb. The incision is extended through the muscles to expose the conical projection of the radius known as the styloid process. Using an osteotome, the provider carefully excises the styloid process and smoothes the surface with the help of a burr. Afterward, the area is irrigated with antibiotics, and the operative site is sutured. This procedure is commonly performed in patients with arthritis or impingement conditions.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 25230 is typically performed on patients with arthritis or impingement conditions that cause symptoms related to the radial styloid. The procedure is indicated when conservative treatments have failed to alleviate the patient’s symptoms. It is important to note that this code should not be reported if the provider performs a more extensive procedure on the same site.

5. When to use CPT code 25230

CPT code 25230 should be used when the provider performs a separate procedure to excise the radial styloid. It is important to ensure that the procedure is necessary and meets the qualifying circumstances mentioned above. If a more extensive procedure is performed on the same site, a different code should be used to accurately reflect the complexity of the procedure.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 25230, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and symptoms related to the radial styloid
• Details of the procedure, including the incision site, approach, and instruments used
• Any additional procedures performed during the same operative session
• Postoperative care instructions and any complications encountered
• Signature of the performing provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 25230, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for a separate radial styloidectomy. This code should not be reported if a more extensive procedure is performed on the same site. It is also important to follow any specific billing guidelines provided by the payer to ensure accurate reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT 25230 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 25230

While there are no similar codes to CPT 25230, there are other codes within the range of excision procedures on the forearm and wrist (25065-25240) that may be applicable for different procedures or conditions. It is important to review the code range and select the most appropriate code based on the specific procedure performed.

9. Examples

1. A patient with arthritis in the wrist undergoes a radial styloidectomy to alleviate pain and improve joint function.
2. A patient with impingement syndrome in the wrist undergoes a radial styloidectomy to relieve pressure on the surrounding structures.
3. A patient with a history of trauma to the wrist undergoes a radial styloidectomy to address chronic pain and limited range of motion.
4. A patient with a ganglion cyst near the radial styloid undergoes a radial styloidectomy to remove the cyst and alleviate symptoms.
5. A patient with a history of repetitive strain injury in the wrist undergoes a radial styloidectomy to improve function and reduce discomfort.
6. A patient with a malunion of a previous wrist fracture undergoes a radial styloidectomy to correct alignment and improve joint stability.
7. A patient with rheumatoid arthritis in the wrist undergoes a radial styloidectomy to address joint deformity and improve overall hand function.
8. A patient with a history of failed conservative treatments for wrist pain undergoes a radial styloidectomy to explore surgical options for symptom relief.
9. A patient with a history of wrist instability undergoes a radial styloidectomy to address ligament laxity and improve joint stability.
10. A patient with a symptomatic ganglion cyst near the radial styloid undergoes a radial styloidectomy to remove the cyst and prevent recurrence.