How To Use CPT Code 25931

CPT 25931 describes the re-amputation of metacarpal bones in the hand. 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 25931?

CPT 25931 is used to describe the re-amputation of metacarpal bones in the hand. This procedure is typically performed when there is a need to correct a problem that remains after the initial amputation. The provider surgically removes the target sections of bone and detaches them from the soft tissues. The nerves are ligated and resected, taking care to keep them away from the scar. The stump is then covered with a skin flap and the incision is closed with sutures.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 25931 is: ‘Transmetacarpal amputation; re-amputation.’

3. Procedure

1. The patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized.
2. The provider makes an incision over the metacarpal bone or bones to be removed.
3. The tendons are incised and allowed to retract.
4. The provider surgically removes the target sections of bone.
5. The metacarpal bones are detached from the soft tissues.
6. The nerves are ligated and resected, ensuring they are away from the scar.
7. A skin flap is used to cover the stump.
8. The incision is closed with sutures.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 25931 is performed when there is a need to re-amputate metacarpal bones in the hand. This may be necessary due to complications or issues that arise after the initial amputation. The procedure is typically performed by a qualified healthcare professional who has determined that re-amputation is the best course of action to address the problem.

5. When to use CPT code 25931

CPT code 25931 should be used when a re-amputation of metacarpal bones in the hand is performed. It is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. If the procedure does not meet the criteria, a different code may be more appropriate.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 25931, the healthcare professional must document the following information:

• Reason for the re-amputation
• Details of the procedure, including the specific metacarpal bones involved
• Date of the procedure
• Start and end time of the procedure
• Any complications or issues encountered during the procedure
• Details of the closure, including the use of a skin flap
• Signature of the healthcare professional performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 25931, ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. It is important to accurately document the details of the procedure and any complications or issues encountered. Follow the appropriate coding and billing guidelines provided by the payer to ensure accurate reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT code 25931 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 patient undergoes re-amputation of metacarpal bones in the hand due to complications from a previous amputation.
2. A provider performs re-amputation of metacarpal bones to address a problem that was not resolved by the initial amputation.
3. A patient with a history of trauma undergoes re-amputation of metacarpal bones to improve function and alleviate pain.
4. A provider performs re-amputation of metacarpal bones to address an infection that developed after the initial amputation.
5. A patient undergoes re-amputation of metacarpal bones to improve the cosmetic appearance of the hand following a previous amputation.
6. A provider performs re-amputation of metacarpal bones to address a tumor that was not completely removed during the initial amputation.
7. A patient with a history of complications from a previous amputation undergoes re-amputation of metacarpal bones to improve overall hand function.
8. A provider performs re-amputation of metacarpal bones to address a problem with bone healing that occurred after the initial amputation.
9. A patient undergoes re-amputation of metacarpal bones to address chronic pain that persisted after the initial amputation.
10. A provider performs re-amputation of metacarpal bones to correct a deformity that developed after the initial amputation.