How To Use CPT Code 25259

CPT code 25259 describes the manipulation of the wrist under general anesthesia to improve the range of motion of a stiff joint. 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 25259?

CPT 25259 is a code used to describe the manipulation of the wrist under general anesthesia. This procedure is performed to improve the range of motion of a stiff joint in the wrist. It involves the provider using their hands or instruments to move the wrist into the desired position.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 25259 is: ‘Manipulation, wrist, under anesthesia.’

3. Procedure

The procedure for CPT code 25259 involves the following steps:

1. The patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized.
2. The provider manipulates the wrist through a full range of motion.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 25259 is used when a patient has a stiff joint in the wrist that requires manipulation under general anesthesia to improve the range of motion. This procedure is typically performed when other conservative treatments have failed to provide relief.

5. When to use CPT code 25259

CPT code 25259 should be used when a provider performs manipulation of the wrist under general anesthesia to improve the range of motion. It is important to note that this code specifically refers to manipulation under anesthesia and should not be used for other types of wrist manipulations.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 25259, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for wrist manipulation under anesthesia
• Date of the procedure
• Details of the manipulation performed
• Anesthesia used
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 25259, it is important to ensure that the procedure was performed under general anesthesia. This code should not be reported if the manipulation was performed without anesthesia. Additionally, it is important to follow any specific billing guidelines provided by the payer to ensure accurate reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT code 25259 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2002. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

Here are some examples of cases where CPT code 25259 may be used:

1. A patient with a history of wrist trauma who has developed limited range of motion in the joint. The provider performs manipulation of the wrist under general anesthesia to improve mobility.
2. A patient with a chronic wrist condition, such as rheumatoid arthritis, who experiences stiffness and limited range of motion. The provider performs manipulation of the wrist under general anesthesia to alleviate symptoms.
3. A patient who has undergone wrist surgery and is experiencing postoperative stiffness. The provider performs manipulation of the wrist under general anesthesia to restore normal range of motion.
4. A patient with a congenital wrist deformity who has limited mobility. The provider performs manipulation of the wrist under general anesthesia to improve function.
5. A patient with a wrist injury who has developed scar tissue and adhesions, resulting in restricted movement. The provider performs manipulation of the wrist under general anesthesia to break up the scar tissue and improve range of motion.