How To Use CPT Code 29240

CPT 29240 describes the application of strapping to the shoulder using elastic adhesive tape 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 29240?

CPT 29240 involves the application of strapping to the shoulder using elastic adhesive tape. This procedure is performed to provide support and limit excessive or abnormal movements in patients with muscle strains, dislocations, sprains, and certain fractures affecting the shoulder joint. The strapping is applied in a Velpeau fashion, which involves wrapping the tape beneath the axilla of the uninjured extremity, up over the injured shoulder, down in front of the arm, and beneath the elbow before passing it under the axilla of the injured extremity again.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 29240 is: ‘Strapping; shoulder (eg, Velpeau).’ This code represents the application of elastic adhesive tape to the shoulder to provide support and limit excessive or abnormal movements.

3. Procedure

1. The patient is placed in a sitting position.
2. The provider ensures that the shoulder area is clean and dry.
3. Elastic adhesive tape is applied in a Velpeau fashion, starting beneath the axilla of the uninjured extremity.
4. The tape is wrapped up over the injured shoulder, down in front of the arm, and beneath the elbow.
5. The wrap is passed under the axilla of the injured extremity again.
6. Strips of adhesive tape are applied in an overlapping fashion to provide the desired amount of support for the shoulder area.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 29240 is performed in cases where patients have muscle strains, dislocations, sprains, or certain fractures affecting the shoulder joint. The procedure is intended to provide support and limit excessive or abnormal movements in the shoulder area. It is important to note that the strapping should be applied by a qualified healthcare professional who is experienced in performing this procedure.

5. When to use CPT code 29240

CPT code 29240 should be used when the provider applies elastic adhesive tape to the shoulder in a Velpeau fashion to provide support and limit excessive or abnormal movements. This code is appropriate for cases where the patient has muscle strains, dislocations, sprains, or certain fractures affecting the shoulder joint. It is important to ensure that the procedure is performed by a qualified healthcare professional and that the strapping is applied according to the specified technique.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 29240, the healthcare professional must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis indicating the need for strapping
• Description of the strapping technique used (e.g., Velpeau fashion)
• Date of the procedure
• Details of the strapping application, including the areas covered and the amount of support provided
• Any additional instructions or recommendations given to the patient
• Signature of the healthcare professional performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 29240, it is important to ensure that the procedure is performed by a qualified healthcare professional and that the strapping is applied according to the specified technique. This code should not be reported if it is included in the primary code for an associated surgical procedure. Replacement of the strapping at a later date may be included in the global period of the surgical procedure or it may be separately reportable, depending on the payer’s guidelines. It is recommended to check with the payer for confirmation on reporting requirements.

8. Historical information

CPT code 29240 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 shoulder dislocation receives strapping using elastic adhesive tape to provide support and limit excessive movements.
2. After sustaining a muscle strain in the shoulder, a patient undergoes strapping to stabilize the joint and prevent further injury.
3. Following a fracture in the shoulder area, a patient receives strapping to immobilize the joint and promote healing.
4. A patient with a shoulder sprain undergoes strapping to reduce pain and inflammation and support the injured area.
5. After a surgical procedure on the shoulder, a patient receives strapping to provide additional support during the recovery period.
6. Athletes with shoulder injuries may receive strapping to protect the joint and allow for safe participation in sports activities.
7. A patient with a chronic shoulder instability receives strapping to provide ongoing support and prevent recurrent dislocations.
8. Individuals with shoulder muscle strains may benefit from strapping to alleviate pain and promote healing.
9. Patients with certain fractures in the shoulder area may require strapping to immobilize the joint and facilitate proper alignment.
10. Following a shoulder sprain, strapping can help stabilize the joint and prevent further damage during the healing process.