How To Use CPT Code 25676

CPT 25676 describes the open treatment of distal radioulnar dislocation, whether acute or chronic. This article will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 25676?

CPT 25676 can be used to describe the open treatment of a dislocation of the radioulnar joint, which is the union of the two forearm bones at the wrist. This code is used when a provider performs an incision in the wrist area to access the joint and may apply wires or screws to secure the bones while healing takes place. A radioulnar dislocation commonly occurs when a person extends their hand to break a fall.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 25676 is: ‘Open treatment of distal radioulnar dislocation, acute or chronic.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient for the procedure and administers anesthesia.
2. An incision is made over the dislocation site to access the joint.
3. The provider realigns the bones into the correct position, reducing the dislocation.
4. Wires or screws may be inserted to secure the bones in place.
5. A radiographic image is obtained to confirm adequate alignment.
6. The incision is closed, and a splint or cast material is applied to prevent movement of the bones during the healing process.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 25676 is performed on patients with a dislocation of the radioulnar joint, whether acute or chronic. The procedure involves open treatment, which means it is performed through a surgical incision. The provider may use internal fixation, such as wires or screws, to secure the bones. The dislocation must occur at the distal radioulnar joint, which is located at the wrist.

5. When to use CPT code 25676

CPT code 25676 should be used when a provider performs open treatment for a distal radioulnar dislocation, whether acute or chronic. It is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 25676, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of a distal radioulnar dislocation
• Details of the procedure, including the incision, reduction of the dislocation, and any internal fixation used
• Radiographic confirmation of adequate alignment
• Description of the closure method
• Type of splint or cast material applied

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 25676, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria outlined in the code description. Consider whether restorative treatments or procedures will be performed, if the same provider will assume all subsequent fracture care, and if there are risks associated with the dislocation. Documentation must support the use of modifier 57, Decision for surgery, and modifier 25, Significant, separately identifiable evaluation and management service by the same provider on the same day of the procedure or other service.

8. Historical information

CPT 25676 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 provider performs an open treatment for an acute distal radioulnar dislocation in a patient who fell and injured their wrist.
2. A patient presents with a chronic distal radioulnar dislocation, and the provider performs an open reduction and internal fixation to correct the dislocation.
3. A provider treats a patient with an acute distal radioulnar dislocation resulting from a sports injury, performing an open reduction and applying a cast for stabilization.
4. An individual with a chronic distal radioulnar dislocation undergoes open treatment with the insertion of screws to secure the bones in place.
5. A provider performs an open treatment for an acute distal radioulnar dislocation in a patient involved in a motor vehicle accident.
6. A patient presents with a chronic distal radioulnar dislocation, and the provider performs an open reduction and applies a splint for immobilization.
7. A provider treats a patient with an acute distal radioulnar dislocation resulting from a fall, performing an open reduction and internal fixation with wires.
8. An individual with a chronic distal radioulnar dislocation undergoes open treatment with the insertion of screws and the application of a cast.
9. A provider performs an open treatment for an acute distal radioulnar dislocation in a patient who sustained a sports-related injury.
10. A patient presents with a chronic distal radioulnar dislocation, and the provider performs an open reduction and applies a cast for stabilization.