How To Use CPT Code 25685

CPT 25685 describes the open treatment of a trans-scaphoperilunar type of fracture dislocation in the forearm and 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 25685?

CPT 25685 is used to describe the open treatment of a trans-scaphoperilunar type of fracture dislocation in the forearm and wrist. This code is used when a provider performs a surgical procedure to treat a dislocation of bones in the wrist, accompanied by a fracture in one of the bones. The procedure involves accessing the bones through an incision at the wrist, realigning the bone, and using internal fixation to hold them in place.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 25685 is: ‘Open treatment of trans-scaphoperilunar type of fracture dislocation.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient for the procedure and administers anesthesia.
2. An incision is made at the wrist over the affected area.
3. The provider reduces the bones into their correct location.
4. Wires are inserted through one or more bones to maintain the reduction.
5. The area is irrigated, checked for bleeding, and any instruments are removed.
6. The incision is closed.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 25685 is used for the open treatment of a trans-scaphoperilunar type of fracture dislocation in the forearm and wrist. This procedure is performed when there is a dislocation of two bones that normally connect to form a joint, accompanied by a fracture in one of the bones. The provider must access the bones through an incision at the wrist, realign the bone, and use internal fixation to hold them in place.

5. When to use CPT code 25685

CPT code 25685 should be used when a provider performs the open treatment of a trans-scaphoperilunar type of fracture dislocation in the forearm and wrist. This code should not be used for other types of fractures or dislocations in different areas of the body.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 25685, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of a trans-scaphoperilunar type of fracture dislocation
• Description of the procedure performed, including the specific bones involved and the method of internal fixation
• Date of the procedure
• Start and end time of the procedure
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 25685, ensure that the procedure performed matches the description of the code. Use additional codes as necessary to report any additional procedures or complications. Follow the appropriate coding guidelines and modifiers for accurate billing.

8. Historical information

CPT 25685 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 of a trans-scaphoperilunar type of fracture dislocation in the forearm and wrist for a patient involved in a car accident.
2. A patient sustains a trans-scaphoperilunar type of fracture dislocation in the forearm and wrist while playing sports, and a provider performs the necessary open treatment.
3. A provider treats a trans-scaphoperilunar type of fracture dislocation in the forearm and wrist for a patient who fell from a ladder.
4. An individual presents with a trans-scaphoperilunar type of fracture dislocation in the forearm and wrist due to a workplace injury, and a provider performs the open treatment.
5. A patient is diagnosed with a trans-scaphoperilunar type of fracture dislocation in the forearm and wrist after a fall at home, and a provider performs the necessary open treatment.
6. A provider performs an open treatment of a trans-scaphoperilunar type of fracture dislocation in the forearm and wrist for a patient involved in a sports-related accident.
7. A patient sustains a trans-scaphoperilunar type of fracture dislocation in the forearm and wrist during a recreational activity, and a provider performs the necessary open treatment.
8. A provider treats a trans-scaphoperilunar type of fracture dislocation in the forearm and wrist for a patient who was injured in a motorcycle accident.
9. An individual presents with a trans-scaphoperilunar type of fracture dislocation in the forearm and wrist due to a fall on ice, and a provider performs the open treatment.
10. A patient is diagnosed with a trans-scaphoperilunar type of fracture dislocation in the forearm and wrist after a sports-related incident, and a provider performs the necessary open treatment.