How To Use CPT Code 25652

CPT 25652 describes the open treatment of an ulnar styloid fracture, which is a fracture in the area of the wrist. 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 25652?

CPT 25652 is used to describe the open treatment of an ulnar styloid fracture. This procedure involves making an incision in the wrist to access the fracture and may include the insertion of pins or wires to stabilize the fracture while it heals. Ulnar styloid fractures often occur when a person extends their hand to break a fall.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 25652 is: ‘Open treatment of ulnar styloid fracture.’

3. Procedure

1. The patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized.
2. The provider makes an incision over the fracture site to access the ulnar styloid.
3. The provider reduces, or realigns, the fracture into the correct position.
4. The provider assesses the ligaments in the area.
5. If necessary, the provider inserts pins or wires to stabilize the fracture as it heals.
6. A radiographic image is obtained to confirm adequate reduction of the fracture.
7. The incision is closed.
8. A splint or cast material is applied to prevent movement of the fracture during the healing process.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 25652 is used for the open treatment of an ulnar styloid fracture. This procedure is performed when a patient has a fracture in the area of the wrist and requires surgical intervention. The provider must make an incision to access the fracture and may use pins or wires to stabilize the fracture during the healing process.

5. When to use CPT code 25652

CPT code 25652 should be used when a patient requires open treatment for an ulnar styloid fracture. This code is appropriate when the provider performs the procedure as described in the official description. It is important to ensure that the documentation supports the use of this code and accurately reflects the procedure performed.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 25652, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of an ulnar styloid fracture
• Description of the procedure performed, including the incision, reduction of the fracture, assessment of ligaments, and insertion of pins or wires if applicable
• Date of the procedure
• Start and end time of the procedure
• Confirmation of adequate reduction of the fracture through radiographic imaging
• Description of any additional procedures or services provided, such as the application of a splint or cast material
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 25652, ensure that the documentation supports the use of this code and accurately reflects the procedure performed. It is important to follow the appropriate coding guidelines and modifiers, if applicable. Consider any additional supplies or services provided and report them separately, if necessary.

8. Historical information

CPT code 25652 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2002. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient falls and fractures their ulnar styloid. The provider performs an open treatment of the fracture, making an incision in the wrist to access the fracture and stabilizing it with pins.
2. After a car accident, a patient presents with an ulnar styloid fracture. The provider performs an open treatment, realigning the fracture and applying a cast to immobilize the wrist.
3. A patient sustains an ulnar styloid fracture while playing sports. The provider performs an open treatment, reducing the fracture and inserting wires to stabilize it during the healing process.
4. Following a fall, a patient is diagnosed with an ulnar styloid fracture. The provider performs an open treatment, assessing the ligaments in the area and applying a splint to support the wrist.
5. A patient fractures their ulnar styloid in a workplace accident. The provider performs an open treatment, using pins to stabilize the fracture and ensure proper healing.
6. During a sporting event, a patient fractures their ulnar styloid. The provider performs an open treatment, realigning the fracture and applying a cast to immobilize the wrist.
7. A patient presents with an ulnar styloid fracture after a fall. The provider performs an open treatment, inserting wires to stabilize the fracture and promote healing.
8. Following a traumatic injury, a patient is diagnosed with an ulnar styloid fracture. The provider performs an open treatment, reducing the fracture and applying a splint to support the wrist.
9. A patient sustains an ulnar styloid fracture in a car accident. The provider performs an open treatment, using pins to stabilize the fracture and ensure proper healing.
10. During a recreational activity, a patient fractures their ulnar styloid. The provider performs an open treatment, realigning the fracture and applying a cast to immobilize the wrist.