How To Use CPT Code 25670

CPT 25670 describes the open treatment of radiocarpal or intercarpal dislocation involving one or more bones in 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 25670?

CPT 25670 is used to describe the open treatment of a dislocation injury involving one or more bones in the wrist. This procedure is performed by making an incision in the wrist to access the dislocated bones and may involve the use of wires or screws to secure the bones while they heal. Radiocarpal dislocations are rare and usually occur as a result of a significant impact injury.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 25670 is: ‘Open treatment of radiocarpal or intercarpal dislocation, one or more bones.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient for the procedure and administers anesthesia.
2. An incision is made over the dislocated bones in the wrist.
3. The provider manually manipulates the bones to return them to their correct positions.
4. If necessary, the provider may insert pins or wires to stabilize the bones.
5. A radiographic image is obtained to confirm that the dislocation has been adequately realigned.
6. The incision is closed, and a splint or cast is applied to prevent movement of the bones during the healing process.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 25670 is used for patients who have a dislocation injury involving one or more bones in the wrist. This procedure is typically performed when the dislocation is severe and requires open treatment. The patient must be appropriately prepped and anesthetized, and the provider must make an incision to access the dislocated bones. The use of wires or screws to stabilize the bones may also be necessary.

5. When to use CPT code 25670

CPT code 25670 should be used when the provider performs an open treatment for a radiocarpal or intercarpal dislocation involving one or more bones in the wrist. This code should not be used for other types of dislocations or for closed reduction procedures. It is important to accurately document the specific details of the procedure to support the use of CPT code 25670.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 25670, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for open treatment of the dislocation
• Details of the procedure, including the specific bones involved and any additional stabilization methods used
• Date of the procedure
• Incision size and location
• Radiographic confirmation of adequate realignment
• Type of anesthesia administered
• Details of any post-procedure care, such as the application of a splint or cast

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 25670, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for open treatment of a radiocarpal or intercarpal dislocation involving one or more bones in the wrist. It is important to accurately document the details of the procedure to support the use of this code. Additionally, consider reporting any additional supplies or services provided during the procedure, such as subsequent castings, splinting, radiographs, or supplies.

8. Historical information

CPT code 25670 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. The code underwent a change in description on January 1, 2010, from ‘Open treatment of radiocarpal or intercarpal dislocation, one or more bones’ to ‘Open treatment of radiocarpal or intercarpal dislocation, 1 or more bones.’

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes open treatment for a radiocarpal dislocation involving multiple bones in the wrist.
2. A provider performs open treatment for an intercarpal dislocation of the scaphoid bone in the wrist.
3. A patient requires open treatment for a radiocarpal dislocation involving the lunate and triquetrum bones in the wrist.
4. A provider performs open treatment for an intercarpal dislocation of the pisiform bone in the wrist.
5. A patient undergoes open treatment for a radiocarpal dislocation involving the trapezium and trapezoid bones in the wrist.
6. A provider performs open treatment for an intercarpal dislocation of the capitate bone in the wrist.
7. A patient requires open treatment for a radiocarpal dislocation involving the hamate bone in the wrist.
8. A provider performs open treatment for an intercarpal dislocation involving multiple bones in the wrist.
9. A patient undergoes open treatment for a radiocarpal dislocation involving the scaphoid and lunate bones in the wrist.
10. A provider performs open treatment for an intercarpal dislocation of the triquetrum bone in the wrist.