How To Use CPT Code 26670

CPT 26670 describes the closed treatment of carpometacarpal dislocation, excluding the thumb, with manipulation, without the use of anesthesia. 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 26670?

CPT 26670 can be used to describe the closed treatment of carpometacarpal dislocation, excluding the thumb, with manipulation, without the use of anesthesia. This code is used when a healthcare provider manipulates the displaced bones in a joint where the hand joins the wrist, except near the base of the thumb, to restore normal alignment and facilitate healing. The procedure does not involve making an incision and does not require general anesthesia.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 26670 is: ‘Closed treatment of carpometacarpal dislocation, other than thumb, with manipulation, each joint; without anesthesia.’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider prepares the patient and administers local anesthesia to the area if necessary.
2. The provider then manipulates the bones in the carpometacarpal joint, excluding the thumb, into the correct anatomical position.
3. Confirmation of alignment is done using imaging techniques.
4. A splint or brace is applied to stabilize the repair and minimize pain.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 26670 is used for patients who have a carpometacarpal dislocation, excluding the thumb, that requires closed treatment with manipulation. The procedure is performed by a healthcare provider without the use of anesthesia. It is important to note that this code specifically excludes dislocations near the base of the thumb.

5. When to use CPT code 26670

CPT code 26670 should be used when a healthcare provider performs closed treatment with manipulation for a carpometacarpal dislocation, excluding the thumb, without the use of anesthesia. 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 26670, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of carpometacarpal dislocation, excluding the thumb
• Procedure performed, including details of the manipulation and any imaging used for confirmation
• Type of anesthesia administered, if applicable
• Application of a splint or brace for stabilization

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 26670, 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 anesthesia administered, if applicable. Additionally, be aware of any additional supplies or services that may be necessary for the treatment and include them in the billing as appropriate.

8. Historical information

CPT 26670 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A healthcare provider performs closed treatment with manipulation for a carpometacarpal dislocation, excluding the thumb, without the use of anesthesia.
2. A patient presents with a carpometacarpal dislocation, excluding the thumb, and the healthcare provider manipulates the bones back into alignment without the need for anesthesia.
3. After confirming the diagnosis of a carpometacarpal dislocation, excluding the thumb, the healthcare provider performs closed treatment with manipulation to restore normal alignment.
4. A splint or brace is applied to stabilize the repair and minimize pain following closed treatment with manipulation for a carpometacarpal dislocation, excluding the thumb.
5. A healthcare provider uses imaging techniques to confirm the alignment of the bones after performing closed treatment with manipulation for a carpometacarpal dislocation, excluding the thumb.
6. Following closed treatment with manipulation for a carpometacarpal dislocation, excluding the thumb, the patient is instructed to follow up for further evaluation and monitoring of the healing process.
7. A healthcare provider performs closed treatment with manipulation for a carpometacarpal dislocation, excluding the thumb, and provides the patient with instructions for at-home care and follow-up.
8. After a thorough examination and diagnosis of a carpometacarpal dislocation, excluding the thumb, the healthcare provider determines that closed treatment with manipulation is the appropriate course of action.
9. The healthcare provider discusses the risks and benefits of closed treatment with manipulation for a carpometacarpal dislocation, excluding the thumb, with the patient before proceeding with the procedure.
10. Following closed treatment with manipulation for a carpometacarpal dislocation, excluding the thumb, the healthcare provider provides the patient with post-procedure instructions and recommendations for pain management.