How To Use CPT Code 25310

CPT 25310 describes a procedure known as tendon transplantation or transfer, which involves the replacement of a damaged or diseased tendon in the forearm or wrist with a tendon from another location. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of CPT code 25310, including its official description, the procedure itself, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 25310?

CPT 25310 is a code used to describe the surgical procedure of tendon transplantation or transfer in the forearm or wrist. This procedure involves the replacement of a damaged or diseased tendon with a healthy tendon from another location in order to restore motion and function to the hand.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 25310 is: ‘Tendon transplantation or transfer, flexor or extensor, forearm and/or wrist, single each tendon.’

3. Procedure

1. The patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized for the procedure.
2. The provider makes a longitudinal incision over the forearm or wrist to expose the tendons.
3. The damaged or diseased tendon is accessed through an incision in its insertion site.
4. A tunnel is created between the damaged tendon and the healthy donor tendon.
5. The damaged tendon is passed through the tunnel and attached to the donor tendon.
6. The provider secures the tendon with sutures and ensures proper alignment and tension.
7. The area is irrigated, checked for bleeding, and any instruments are removed.
8. The incision is closed, and appropriate post-operative care is provided.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 25310 is used when a patient requires a tendon transplantation or transfer in the forearm or wrist due to a damaged or diseased tendon. This procedure is typically performed to restore motion and function in cases where conservative treatments have failed. The patient must meet the specific criteria for this procedure, as determined by the provider.

5. When to use CPT code 25310

CPT code 25310 should be used when a provider performs a tendon transplantation or transfer in the forearm or wrist. This code is appropriate when a single tendon is transplanted or transferred. It is important to accurately document the procedure and ensure that it meets the criteria outlined in the official description of CPT code 25310.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 25310, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for tendon transplantation or transfer
• Specific details of the procedure, including the location of the donor tendon and the damaged tendon
• Date of the procedure
• Any additional procedures or interventions performed during the same session
• Post-operative care instructions and follow-up plans
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 25310, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the criteria outlined in the official description. The provider should accurately document the details of the procedure and any additional services provided. It is also important to follow any specific billing guidelines provided by the payer or coding guidelines.

8. Historical information

CPT code 25310 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. Examples

1. A patient with severe arthritis of the carpometacarpal joint undergoes a tendon transplantation procedure to replace a damaged flexor tendon in the wrist.
2. A professional athlete sustains a tendon injury in the forearm and undergoes a tendon transfer procedure to restore function and allow for a return to sports.
3. A patient with a chronic condition such as rheumatoid arthritis requires a tendon transplantation to improve hand function and reduce pain.
4. A patient with a traumatic injury to the wrist undergoes a tendon transfer procedure to restore motion and stability.
5. A patient with a congenital hand deformity undergoes a tendon transplantation procedure to improve hand function and appearance.
6. A patient with a degenerative condition such as Dupuytren’s contracture undergoes a tendon transfer procedure to correct finger deformities.
7. A patient with a tendon rupture in the forearm undergoes a tendon transplantation procedure to restore hand function.
8. A patient with a chronic overuse injury in the wrist undergoes a tendon transfer procedure to alleviate pain and improve function.
9. A patient with a tendon infection in the forearm undergoes a tendon transplantation procedure to remove the infected tendon and replace it with a healthy tendon.
10. A patient with a tendon tear in the wrist undergoes a tendon transfer procedure to repair the tear and restore hand function.