How To Use CPT Code 28313

CPT 28313 describes the soft tissue procedures used to correct angular deformities of the toe, such as curly toes. This article will cover the description, official details, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 28313?

CPT 28313 is a code used to describe the surgical correction of angular deformities in the toe. This procedure focuses on releasing tight soft tissues and transferring muscle tendons to correct the deformity. It does not involve any cutting of the bone.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 28313 is the following: ‘Reconstruction, angular deformity of toe, soft tissue procedures only (eg, overlapping second toe, fifth toe, curly toes).’ This code specifically refers to soft tissue procedures performed to correct angular deformities in the toe.

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by making an incision in the skin over the affected toe.
2. They then dissect through the subcutaneous tissue, just beneath the skin, to access the tight muscle tendons and other soft tissues causing the deformity.
3. After identifying the tight soft tissues and adhesions, the provider releases them, which may involve opening the joint capsule.
4. In some cases, the provider may need to transfer muscle tendons from their original attachments to new locations to alleviate the pulling that causes the deformity.
5. Once the necessary corrections are made, the provider stops any bleeding and sutures the soft tissues in layers to close the wound.
6. A soft dressing or cast is applied to the foot to maintain the corrected alignment of the toe for a few weeks.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 28313 is used for patients with angular deformities in the toe, such as curly toes. These deformities may cause the toes to bend downward or sideways toward the sole of the foot. The procedure is performed on the soft tissues surrounding the toe, without involving any bone-related interventions.

5. When to use CPT code 28313

CPT code 28313 should be used when a provider performs soft tissue procedures to correct angular deformities in the toe. It is important to note that this code is specific to soft tissue procedures only and does not cover any bone-related interventions. If bone procedures are performed in addition to soft tissue procedures, a different code should be used.

6. Documentation requirements

When reporting CPT code 28313, the provider must document the following information:

• The patient’s diagnosis and the need for the soft tissue correction
• A detailed description of the procedure performed, including any specific techniques used
• The date of the procedure
• The start and end time of the procedure
• Any complications or unexpected findings during the procedure
• Post-procedure instructions given to the patient
• The provider’s signature

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 28313, it is important to ensure that the procedure performed aligns with the code’s description. This code should not be reported if bone-related interventions are performed in addition to the soft tissue procedures. It is also essential to follow any specific guidelines provided by the payer or coding guidelines to ensure accurate billing.

8. Historical information

CPT code 28313 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 with curly toes undergoes a soft tissue correction procedure on their second toe.
2. A provider performs a soft tissue correction procedure on a patient’s fifth toe to correct an angular deformity.
3. A patient with overlapping second toes undergoes a soft tissue correction procedure to realign the toes.
4. A provider performs a soft tissue correction procedure on a patient’s fifth toe to alleviate pain and improve function.
5. A patient with curly toes undergoes a soft tissue correction procedure on both feet to correct the deformity.
6. A provider performs a soft tissue correction procedure on a patient’s second toe to improve the appearance and alignment of the toe.
7. A patient with overlapping fifth toes undergoes a soft tissue correction procedure to separate and align the toes.
8. A provider performs a soft tissue correction procedure on a patient’s second toe to relieve pressure and discomfort caused by the deformity.
9. A patient with curly toes undergoes a soft tissue correction procedure on their fifth toe to improve their ability to wear shoes comfortably.
10. A provider performs a soft tissue correction procedure on a patient’s second toe to restore normal function and alignment.