How To Use CPT Code 26775

CPT 26775 describes the closed treatment of a single interphalangeal joint dislocation with manipulation, requiring 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 26775?

CPT 26775 can be used to describe the closed treatment of a single interphalangeal joint dislocation with manipulation, which involves the adjustment of the dislocated bone using anesthesia. This code is used when the provider performs a procedure to reduce the dislocation and realign the bones of the finger joint.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 26775 is: ‘Closed treatment of interphalangeal joint dislocation, single, with manipulation; requiring anesthesia.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient and administers anesthesia to ensure a pain-free procedure.
2. An X-ray is performed to assess the dislocated joint and guide the manipulation process.
3. The provider manually adjusts the bones by pushing or pulling to reduce the dislocation and bring the bones back into their normal alignment.
4. After the reduction, the provider immobilizes the digit by placing it in a brace or splint for approximately four weeks.
5. Follow-up X-rays may be performed to confirm the successful reduction of the dislocation.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 26775 is used for patients who have a single interphalangeal joint dislocation that requires closed treatment with manipulation under anesthesia. This code is applicable when the provider performs the procedure on a single joint and uses manipulation techniques to realign the bones. It is important to note that this code specifically requires the use of anesthesia during the procedure.

5. When to use CPT code 26775

CPT code 26775 should be used when a provider performs a closed treatment of a single interphalangeal joint dislocation with manipulation, and anesthesia is required. This code is not appropriate for cases where manipulation is performed without anesthesia or when the dislocation involves multiple joints. It is important to accurately document the use of anesthesia and the specific joint being treated to support the use of this code.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 26775, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of a single interphalangeal joint dislocation
• Use of anesthesia during the procedure
• Specific joint being treated
• Details of the manipulation technique used
• Confirmation of successful reduction through post-procedure X-rays
• Application of a brace or splint for immobilization

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 26775, ensure that the procedure involves the closed treatment of a single interphalangeal joint dislocation with manipulation and requires anesthesia. It is important to accurately document the use of anesthesia and the specific joint being treated. Additionally, be aware of the appropriate use of modifiers and any specific payer guidelines for reporting this code.

8. Historical information

CPT 26775 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 patient presents with a dislocated interphalangeal joint in their finger. The provider administers anesthesia and performs closed treatment with manipulation to realign the bones. The joint is then immobilized with a splint for four weeks.
2. After an X-ray confirms a dislocated interphalangeal joint, the provider performs closed treatment with manipulation under anesthesia. The bones are successfully realigned, and the patient’s finger is placed in a brace for immobilization.
3. A patient with a dislocated interphalangeal joint undergoes closed treatment with manipulation requiring anesthesia. The provider carefully adjusts the bones back into their normal alignment and applies a splint to support the joint during the healing process.
4. During a procedure, the provider reduces a dislocated interphalangeal joint through closed treatment with manipulation under anesthesia. The joint is stabilized with a brace, and follow-up X-rays confirm the successful reduction.
5. A patient with a dislocated interphalangeal joint receives closed treatment with manipulation under anesthesia. The provider carefully manipulates the bones back into their proper alignment and immobilizes the joint with a splint for several weeks.