How To Use CPT Code 29000

CPT 29000 describes the application of a halo-type body cast by a healthcare provider. This article will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 29000?

CPT 29000 is used to describe the application of a halo-type body cast by a healthcare provider. This procedure involves the use of a rigid vest that is attached to a halo (metal ring) connected to the skull. The body cast is used to immobilize the head and neck after major spinal surgery or traumatic injury, particularly in the cervical spine area. It can also be attached to the pelvis or thigh bone with additional devices.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 29000 is: ‘Application of halo-type body cast (see 20661-20663 for insertion).’ This code specifically refers to the application of the body cast and not the halo ring itself.

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider takes precise measurements of the patient and selects a vest of the appropriate size.
2. The patient lies supine, and the provider applies the rigid vest, ensuring all fastenings are initially loose.
3. The connector bars are positioned on the patient’s chest, and then connected to the halo ring on the skull.
4. All fasteners, straps, and screw bolts are tightened, and the position and fit of the vest are thoroughly assessed.
5. The provider provides instructions to the patient and/or caregivers on how to make further adjustments in the brace and periodic tightening during the recovery period.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 29000 is used when a halo-type body cast is applied to immobilize the head and neck after major spinal surgery or traumatic injury. It is typically performed by a healthcare provider and requires precise measurements, proper fitting, and adjustments. The procedure may also involve the attachment of the body cast to the pelvis or thigh bone.

5. When to use CPT code 29000

CPT code 29000 should be used when a healthcare provider applies a halo-type body cast to immobilize the head and neck after major spinal surgery or traumatic injury. It is important to note that this code specifically refers to the application of the body cast and not the halo ring itself.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 29000, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis or reason for the application of the body cast
• Details of the procedure, including measurements taken and adjustments made
• Date of the procedure
• Instructions provided to the patient and/or caregivers

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 29000, ensure that the procedure is performed by a healthcare provider and involves the application of a halo-type body cast. It is important to note that this code specifically refers to the application of the body cast and not the halo ring itself. Check with the payer for any specific guidelines or requirements for reporting CPT 29000.

8. Historical information

CPT 29000 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 applies a halo-type body cast to immobilize the head and neck of a patient after cervical spine surgery.
2. A patient with a traumatic injury undergoes the application of a halo-type body cast by a healthcare provider.
3. A healthcare provider attaches a halo-type body cast to the pelvis of a patient after major spinal surgery.
4. A patient with a thigh bone fracture receives the application of a halo-type body cast by a healthcare provider.
5. A healthcare provider applies a halo-type body cast to immobilize the head and neck of a patient after a severe neck injury.
6. A patient with a spinal cord injury undergoes the application of a halo-type body cast by a healthcare provider.
7. A healthcare provider attaches a halo-type body cast to the pelvis and thigh bone of a patient after complex spinal surgery.
8. A patient with multiple fractures in the cervical spine receives the application of a halo-type body cast by a healthcare provider.
9. A healthcare provider applies a halo-type body cast to immobilize the head and neck of a patient after a car accident.
10. A patient with a severe neck fracture undergoes the application of a halo-type body cast by a healthcare provider.