How To Use CPT Code 29450

CPT 29450 describes the application of a clubfoot cast with molding or manipulation, either on the long or short leg. This article will provide an overview of CPT code 29450, including its official description, the procedure involved, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 29450?

CPT 29450 is used to describe the application of a clubfoot cast with molding or manipulation. This procedure is typically performed on either the long or short leg and involves gently stretching the foot and applying a temporary cast. The purpose of this treatment is to gradually reposition the foot by applying pressure on the ligaments and promoting the stretching process.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 29450 is: ‘Application of clubfoot cast with molding or manipulation, long or short leg.’ It is important to note that if the procedure is performed bilaterally, the modifier 50 should be used.

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by gently stretching the foot and manipulating the ligaments and bony structures to reposition the foot in a graduated manner.
2. A molded cast is then applied from the thigh or knee down to and over the foot to maintain the ligaments in their stretched position.
3. This cast is typically worn for a few weeks, after which the process is repeated to continue the repositioning and stretching of the foot.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 29450 is typically performed on patients with clubfoot deformity, which can be a congenital condition or the result of childhood polio. The procedure involves manipulating the foot’s ligaments and bony structures to gradually reposition the foot. It is important to note that the procedure can be performed on either the long or short leg.

5. When to use CPT code 29450

CPT code 29450 should be used when the provider applies a clubfoot cast with molding or manipulation on either the long or short leg. It is important to ensure that the procedure aligns with the official description and that the appropriate modifier is used if the procedure is performed bilaterally.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 29450, the provider must document the following information:

• The patient’s diagnosis, indicating the presence of clubfoot deformity
• A detailed description of the procedure performed, including the specific molding or manipulation techniques used
• The date of the procedure
• The duration of the cast application
• Any additional relevant information, such as the use of a bilateral modifier if applicable

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 29450, it is important to ensure that the procedure aligns with the official description and that the appropriate modifier is used if the procedure is performed bilaterally. It is also important to follow any specific billing guidelines provided by the payer. Additionally, consider any other codes that may need to be reported in conjunction with CPT code 29450, and ensure that the documentation supports the services provided.

8. Historical information

CPT code 29450 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 provider applies a clubfoot cast with molding to reposition the foot of an infant with congenital clubfoot deformity.
2. A patient who had childhood polio undergoes a clubfoot cast application with manipulation to improve the position of their foot.
3. A provider applies a clubfoot cast with molding to gradually stretch and reposition the foot of a child with acquired clubfoot deformity.
4. A provider applies a clubfoot cast with manipulation to reposition the foot of a teenager with severe clubfoot deformity.
5. A provider applies a clubfoot cast with molding to reposition the foot of an adult with residual clubfoot deformity from childhood.
6. A provider applies a clubfoot cast with manipulation to reposition the foot of a patient with recurrent clubfoot deformity after previous treatment.
7. A provider applies a clubfoot cast with molding to reposition the foot of a patient with bilateral clubfoot deformity.
8. A provider applies a clubfoot cast with manipulation to reposition the foot of a patient with unilateral clubfoot deformity.
9. A provider applies a clubfoot cast with molding to reposition the foot of a patient with clubfoot deformity and associated ligament laxity.
10. A provider applies a clubfoot cast with manipulation to reposition the foot of a patient with clubfoot deformity and limited range of motion.