How To Use CPT Code 25622

CPT 25622 describes the closed treatment of a carpal scaphoid (navicular) fracture 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 25622?

CPT 25622 is used to describe the closed treatment of a carpal scaphoid (navicular) fracture without manipulation. This means that the provider treats the fracture without making an incision or manipulating the fracture. The treatment involves applying a splint to prevent movement of the fracture until it heals.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 25622 is: ‘Closed treatment of carpal scaphoid (navicular) fracture; without manipulation.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider assesses the patient’s wrist and determines the presence of a carpal scaphoid fracture using radiographic imaging.
2. If a fracture is confirmed, the provider applies a splint to immobilize the fracture and prevent movement.
3. The splint is typically worn until the fracture has healed, which can take several weeks.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 25622 is used for patients who have a carpal scaphoid fracture that can be treated without the need for surgical incision or manipulation. The provider must assess the fracture and determine that it is appropriate for closed treatment. The patient may require additional imaging, such as X-rays, to confirm the presence and location of the fracture.

5. When to use CPT code 25622

CPT code 25622 should be used when a provider performs closed treatment of a carpal scaphoid fracture without manipulation. This code is appropriate when the provider applies a splint to immobilize the fracture and does not make an incision or manipulate the fracture. If the provider performs any manipulation or makes an incision, a different CPT code should be used.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 25622, the provider must document the following information:

• Confirmation of the carpal scaphoid fracture through radiographic imaging
• Description of the closed treatment procedure, including the application of a splint
• Date of the treatment
• Any additional imaging or tests performed
• Follow-up plans, if applicable
• Signature of the provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 25622, ensure that the treatment meets the criteria for closed treatment without manipulation. The provider should not make an incision or manipulate the fracture during the procedure. It is important to accurately document the procedure and any additional services provided. Modifier 54, Surgical care only, should not be used with CPT 25622. Additionally, consider reporting any additional supplies of casting materials using the appropriate HCPCS codes.

8. Historical information

CPT 25622 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 patient presents with a carpal scaphoid fracture, and the provider applies a splint to immobilize the fracture without manipulation.
2. A radiographic image confirms a carpal scaphoid fracture, and the provider applies a splint to prevent movement of the fracture.
3. A patient with a carpal scaphoid fracture undergoes closed treatment with the application of a splint.
4. The provider diagnoses a carpal scaphoid fracture and treats it with closed treatment, applying a splint to immobilize the fracture.
5. A carpal scaphoid fracture is confirmed through imaging, and the provider performs closed treatment by applying a splint.
6. A patient presents with a carpal scaphoid fracture, and the provider performs closed treatment without manipulation, applying a splint to immobilize the fracture.
7. The provider diagnoses a carpal scaphoid fracture and performs closed treatment by applying a splint to prevent movement of the fracture.
8. A radiographic image confirms a carpal scaphoid fracture, and the provider applies a splint to immobilize the fracture without manipulation.
9. A patient with a carpal scaphoid fracture undergoes closed treatment with the application of a splint.
10. The provider diagnoses a carpal scaphoid fracture and treats it with closed treatment, applying a splint to immobilize the fracture.