How To Use CPT Code 29200

CPT 29200 describes the application of strapping to the thorax, or chest, to provide support and limit excessive or abnormal movements. 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 29200?

CPT 29200 involves the application of elastic adhesive tape to the thorax, or chest, to hold the muscles in a fixed position and limit excessive or abnormal movements. This procedure is commonly used to treat muscle strains, dislocations, sprains, and certain fractures in the thoracic region.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 29200 is: ‘Strapping; thorax.’ This code is specifically used to report the application of strapping to the thorax for therapeutic purposes.

3. Procedure

1. The provider places the patient in a sitting position and ensures that the thorax is clean and dry.
2. Elastic adhesive tape is applied across the shoulder blades, covering the lateral side of the blades of each shoulder.
3. The tape is applied in an overlapping fashion, ensuring proper fit and pressure to achieve the desired amount of support for the area.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 29200 is typically performed for patients with muscle strains, dislocations, sprains, or certain fractures in the thoracic region. It is important to note that this procedure should be performed by a qualified healthcare professional who has the necessary expertise in applying strapping to the thorax.

5. When to use CPT code 29200

CPT code 29200 should be used when the provider applies strapping to the thorax for therapeutic purposes. It is important to ensure that the procedure is performed solely for the application of strapping and not in conjunction with any other surgical procedure or treatment.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 29200, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis or condition necessitating the application of strapping
• Details of the strapping procedure, including the specific technique used and the amount of support provided
• Date of the procedure
• Any additional relevant information, such as the patient’s response to the strapping or any complications encountered

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 29200, it is important to ensure that the procedure is performed solely for the application of strapping to the thorax. If the strapping is performed in conjunction with another surgical procedure, it may be included in the primary code for that procedure. However, if the strapping is performed as a separate service, it should be reported using CPT code 29200.

8. Historical information

CPT code 29200 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 a muscle strain in the thoracic region receives strapping to limit movement and provide support.
2. Following a dislocation of the shoulder, the provider applies strapping to the thorax to stabilize the joint.
3. A patient with a sprained rib receives strapping to the thorax to alleviate pain and promote healing.
4. After a fracture in the thoracic region, the provider applies strapping to immobilize the area and facilitate proper healing.
5. For a patient with multiple rib fractures, the provider applies strapping to the thorax to provide support and reduce discomfort.
6. Athletes with muscle strains in the chest area may receive strapping to limit movement and prevent further injury.
7. Patients recovering from thoracic surgery may benefit from strapping to provide support and aid in the healing process.
8. Individuals with chronic conditions that cause instability in the thoracic region may receive ongoing strapping to manage symptoms and improve function.
9. Patients with certain fractures in the thoracic region may require strapping to immobilize the area and promote proper alignment.
10. Individuals with sprains in the chest area may receive strapping to limit movement and facilitate healing.