How To Use CPT Code 26645

CPT 26645 describes the closed treatment of a specific type of thumb fracture dislocation known as a Bennett fracture. 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 26645?

CPT 26645 is used to describe the closed treatment of a Bennett fracture, which is a specific type of thumb fracture dislocation. This procedure involves manipulating the bones in the joint at the base of the thumb near the wrist to restore normal alignment and facilitate healing. No incision is made during this treatment.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 26645 is: ‘Closed treatment of carpometacarpal fracture dislocation, thumb (Bennett fracture), with manipulation.’

3. Procedure

1. During the procedure, the healthcare provider manipulates the bones of the carpometacarpal joint at the base of the thumb, also known as the basal thumb joint, to correct the anatomical position.
2. The provider confirms the alignment using imaging techniques.
3. A splint is applied to stabilize the repair and minimize pain.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 26645 is used for the closed treatment of a Bennett fracture, which is a fracture dislocation at the carpometacarpal joint at the base of the thumb involving the first metacarpal bone. This procedure is performed without making an incision at the site of the injury.

5. When to use CPT code 26645

CPT code 26645 should be used when a healthcare provider performs closed treatment of a Bennett fracture without making an incision. It is important to accurately document the specific type of fracture and the treatment provided to ensure proper coding.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 26645, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Specific diagnosis of a Bennett fracture
• Description of the closed treatment procedure performed
• Confirmation of alignment using imaging
• Application of a splint for stabilization

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 26645, ensure that the procedure performed is a closed treatment of a Bennett fracture without making an incision. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the payer and accurately report any additional supplies used during the procedure.

8. Historical information

CPT 26645 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 healthcare provider performs closed treatment of a Bennett fracture in a patient who fell and injured their thumb while playing sports.
2. A patient presents with a Bennett fracture after a car accident, and the healthcare provider performs closed treatment to realign the bones in the thumb joint.
3. A child sustains a Bennett fracture while playing on the playground, and the healthcare provider performs closed treatment to restore normal alignment.
4. An elderly patient fractures their thumb in a fall, and the healthcare provider performs closed treatment to facilitate healing and reduce pain.
5. A construction worker injures their thumb in a workplace accident, resulting in a Bennett fracture that requires closed treatment by a healthcare provider.
6. A patient with a Bennett fracture seeks medical attention, and the healthcare provider performs closed treatment to correct the dislocation and promote healing.
7. A healthcare provider performs closed treatment of a Bennett fracture in a patient who sustained the injury while participating in a recreational activity.
8. A patient presents with a Bennett fracture after a fall from a bicycle, and the healthcare provider performs closed treatment to restore normal alignment.
9. An athlete sustains a Bennett fracture during a game, and the healthcare provider performs closed treatment to ensure proper healing and return to sports.
10. A patient fractures their thumb in a household accident, and the healthcare provider performs closed treatment to realign the bones and promote recovery.