How To Use CPT Code 25671

CPT 25671 describes the percutaneous skeletal fixation of a distal radioulnar dislocation. 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 25671?

CPT 25671 is used to describe a percutaneous procedure for the treatment of a dislocation of the radioulnar joint, which is the union of the two forearm bones at the wrist. In this procedure, the provider inserts pins or wires through the skin and into the bones to hold them in place. This type of dislocation often occurs when a person extends their hand to break a fall.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 25671 is: ‘Percutaneous skeletal fixation of distal radioulnar dislocation.’

3. Procedure

1. The patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized for the procedure.
2. Using fluoroscopic guidance, the provider realigns the dislocated bones, reducing them back into their normal position.
3. The provider makes small puncture incisions in the skin and inserts small pins or wires into the bones to fix them in place.
4. The incisions are then closed, and an external frame may be attached to the pins for rigid fixation or a cast may be applied to restrict movement during the healing process.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 25671 is used for patients with a dislocation of the radioulnar joint that requires percutaneous skeletal fixation. This procedure is typically performed when the bones can be realigned without the need for open surgery. The patient must meet the specific criteria for this procedure, and the provider must determine that percutaneous fixation is the appropriate treatment option.

5. When to use CPT code 25671

CPT code 25671 should be used when a provider performs percutaneous skeletal fixation for a distal radioulnar dislocation. It is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria for this code and that the provider is performing the fixation percutaneously rather than through open surgery.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 25671, the provider must document the following information:

• Diagnosis of the distal radioulnar dislocation
• Details of the procedure, including the use of fluoroscopic guidance
• Specific technique used for the percutaneous skeletal fixation
• Incision sites and number of pins or wires inserted
• Any additional procedures performed, such as the attachment of an external frame or application of a cast
• Post-procedure instructions and follow-up plans

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 25671, ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria for this code and that the provider is performing percutaneous skeletal fixation for a distal radioulnar dislocation. It is important to follow the appropriate coding guidelines and modifiers, if applicable, to accurately report the procedure.

8. Historical information

CPT 25671 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 provider performs percutaneous skeletal fixation for a distal radioulnar dislocation in a patient who fell and dislocated their wrist.
2. A patient presents with a dislocation of the radioulnar joint, and the provider uses fluoroscopic guidance to realign the bones and performs percutaneous fixation.
3. A provider treats a distal radioulnar dislocation in a patient who sustained a sports-related injury, using percutaneous skeletal fixation.
4. A patient with a dislocated wrist undergoes percutaneous skeletal fixation to stabilize the bones and promote proper healing.
5. A provider performs percutaneous skeletal fixation for a distal radioulnar dislocation in a patient involved in a motor vehicle accident.
6. A patient presents with a dislocated wrist, and the provider performs percutaneous skeletal fixation to restore normal joint alignment.
7. A provider treats a distal radioulnar dislocation in a patient who fell from a height, using percutaneous skeletal fixation.
8. A patient with a dislocated wrist undergoes percutaneous skeletal fixation to stabilize the bones and prevent further damage.
9. A provider performs percutaneous skeletal fixation for a distal radioulnar dislocation in a patient who sustained a workplace injury.
10. A patient presents with a dislocated wrist, and the provider performs percutaneous skeletal fixation to restore joint stability and function.