How To Use CPT Code 25608

CPT 25608 describes the open treatment of a distal radial intra-articular fracture or epiphyseal separation with internal fixation of two fragments. 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 25608?

CPT 25608 is used to describe the surgical repair of a fracture or separation of the lower radius, specifically beyond the joint. The procedure involves making an incision to access the fracture site and then fixing two radial bone fragments in place using internal wires, screws, or pins.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 25608 is: ‘Open treatment of distal radial intra-articular fracture or epiphyseal separation; with internal fixation of 2 fragments.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider surgically opens the fracture site to visualize the fracture or separation.
2. The provider manipulates the two bone fragments into the correct position.
3. The provider stabilizes the fracture by placing interlocking screws or wires across the fracture site.
4. The provider controls any bleeding and closes the incision.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 25608 is performed on patients with a fracture or separation of the lower radius that requires surgical intervention. The procedure is typically performed by a qualified healthcare professional and involves the use of internal fixation to stabilize the fracture.

5. When to use CPT code 25608

CPT code 25608 should be used when a patient presents with a distal radial intra-articular fracture or epiphyseal separation that requires open treatment and internal fixation of two fragments. It is important to ensure that the procedure performed aligns with the specific details outlined in the code description.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 25608, the healthcare professional must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for surgical intervention
• Details of the procedure performed, including the approach used and the specific fixation method (wires, screws, or pins)
• Any additional procedures or treatments performed during the same session
• Any complications or unexpected findings encountered during the procedure
• Signature of the healthcare professional performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 25608, ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. It is important to accurately document the details of the procedure and any additional services provided. Follow any additional guidelines or modifiers required by the payer to ensure proper reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT 25608 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2007. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient presents with a distal radial intra-articular fracture, and the provider performs an open reduction and internal fixation of two fragments using screws.
2. A patient sustains an epiphyseal separation of the lower radius, and the provider performs an open treatment with internal fixation of two fragments using wires.
3. A patient fractures their lower radius beyond the joint, and the provider performs an open reduction and internal fixation of two fragments using pins.
4. A patient presents with a complex distal radial fracture, and the provider performs an open treatment with internal fixation of two fragments using a combination of screws and wires.
5. A patient experiences an epiphyseal separation of the lower radius, and the provider performs an open reduction and internal fixation of two fragments using screws and plates.
6. A patient sustains a comminuted distal radial fracture, and the provider performs an open treatment with internal fixation of two fragments using intramedullary nails.
7. A patient fractures their lower radius beyond the joint, and the provider performs an open reduction and internal fixation of two fragments using a combination of screws and external fixation.
8. A patient presents with an epiphyseal separation of the lower radius, and the provider performs an open treatment with internal fixation of two fragments using percutaneous skeletal fixation.
9. A patient sustains a complex distal radial fracture, and the provider performs an open reduction and internal fixation of two fragments using a combination of screws and percutaneous skeletal fixation.
10. A patient fractures their lower radius beyond the joint, and the provider performs an open treatment with internal fixation of two fragments using percutaneous skeletal fixation and external fixation.