How To Use CPT Code 25600

CPT code 25600 describes the closed treatment of a distal radial fracture or epiphyseal separation without 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 25600?

CPT 25600 is used to describe the closed treatment of a distal radial fracture or epiphyseal separation without manipulation. This means that the provider treats a fracture of the wrist end of the radius, one of the bones in the forearm, in a closed procedure without making an incision or manipulating the bones.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 25600 is: ‘Closed treatment of distal radial fracture (eg, Colles or Smith type) or epiphyseal separation, includes closed treatment of fracture of ulnar styloid, when performed; without manipulation.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider assesses the presence of a distal radial fracture or epiphyseal separation using radiographic imaging.
2. If the fracture is determined to be present, the provider applies a splint or cast material to prevent movement of the bones until healing takes place.
3. No incision or manipulation of the fracture is performed during this procedure.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 25600 is used for patients with a distal radial fracture or epiphyseal separation that does not require manipulation or surgical intervention. The provider may also treat a fracture of the ulnar styloid, the bony bump on the ulna, if it is present. It is important to note that this code is specifically for closed treatment without manipulation.

5. When to use CPT code 25600

CPT code 25600 should be used when the provider performs closed treatment of a distal radial fracture or epiphyseal separation without manipulation. If manipulation is performed, a different code should be used. It is important to accurately document the procedure performed to ensure proper coding.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 25600, the provider must document the following information:

• Presence of a distal radial fracture or epiphyseal separation
• Use of radiographic imaging to determine the fracture
• Application of a splint or cast material
• Any additional treatment performed, such as closed treatment of a fracture of the ulnar styloid
• Signature of the provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 25600, ensure that the treatment is performed without manipulation and that no incision is made. It is important to accurately document the procedure and use the appropriate code based on the specific circumstances of the treatment. If the provider performs manipulation or makes an incision, a different code should be used.

8. Historical information

CPT 25600 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 provider applies a cast to a patient with a distal radial fracture without manipulating the bones.
2. A patient with an epiphyseal separation receives closed treatment with a splint to immobilize the bones.
3. A provider treats a distal radial fracture and a fracture of the ulnar styloid without making an incision or manipulating the bones.
4. A cast is applied to a patient with a Colles fracture without any manipulation of the bones.
5. A provider treats an epiphyseal separation without manipulation and applies a splint to immobilize the bones.
6. A patient with a Smith fracture receives closed treatment without manipulation.
7. A provider applies a cast to a patient with a distal radial fracture and a fracture of the ulnar styloid without manipulating the bones.
8. A patient with an epiphyseal separation receives closed treatment without manipulation and a splint is applied.
9. A provider treats a distal radial fracture without making an incision or manipulating the bones.
10. A cast is applied to a patient with a Colles fracture and a fracture of the ulnar styloid without any manipulation of the bones.