How To Use CPT Code 25505

CPT 25505 describes the closed treatment of a fracture in the shaft of the radius, one of the bones in the forearm, with manipulation. 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 25505?

CPT 25505 is used to describe the closed treatment of a fracture in the shaft of the radius, without making an incision. The provider manipulates the fracture into alignment and applies a splint or cast material to prevent movement of the fracture until it heals.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 25505 is: ‘Closed treatment of radial shaft fracture; with manipulation.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider assesses the patient’s condition and confirms the presence of a fracture through radiographic imaging.
2. The provider uses their hands to manipulate the fracture into its correct position.
3. Another radiographic image is obtained to ensure the fracture is adequately reduced.
4. A splint or cast material is applied to immobilize the fracture and promote healing.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 25505 is used for patients with a fracture in the shaft of the radius that can be treated without making an incision. The provider must manipulate the fracture into alignment and apply a splint or cast material. This code should not be used for fractures that require surgical intervention.

5. When to use CPT code 25505

CPT code 25505 should be used when a provider performs closed treatment of a fracture in the shaft of the radius with manipulation. It should not be used for fractures that require surgical intervention or when an incision is made.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 25505, the provider must document the following information:

• Confirmation of the fracture through radiographic imaging
• Description of the manipulation technique used
• Documentation of the application of a splint or cast material

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 25505, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for closed treatment of a fracture in the shaft of the radius with manipulation. It is important to accurately document the procedure and provide the necessary supporting documentation. Modifier 54, Surgical care only, may be used if the provider will not see the patient for follow-up care. Additionally, consider reporting any separate evaluation and management services provided in conjunction with the fracture treatment.

8. Historical information

CPT 25505 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A provider performs closed treatment with manipulation for a fracture in the shaft of the radius without the need for surgical intervention.
2. A patient presents with a fracture in the shaft of the radius, and the provider manipulates the fracture into alignment and applies a splint for immobilization.
3. A provider uses their hands to manipulate a fracture in the shaft of the radius and applies a cast to promote healing.
4. A patient sustains a fracture in the shaft of the radius, and the provider performs closed treatment with manipulation and applies a splint for stabilization.
5. A provider treats a fracture in the shaft of the radius by manipulating the fracture into alignment and applying a cast for immobilization.
6. A patient presents with a fracture in the shaft of the radius, and the provider performs closed treatment with manipulation and applies a splint to prevent movement of the fracture.
7. A provider manipulates a fracture in the shaft of the radius into alignment and applies a cast for immobilization.
8. A patient sustains a fracture in the shaft of the radius, and the provider performs closed treatment with manipulation and applies a splint to promote healing.
9. A provider treats a fracture in the shaft of the radius by manipulating the fracture into alignment and applying a cast for stabilization.
10. A patient presents with a fracture in the shaft of the radius, and the provider performs closed treatment with manipulation and applies a splint to prevent movement of the fracture.