Question: What are the keys to deciding when to report splinting and when to report strapping?
Arizona Subscriber
Answer: If you master a few important differences between the two, you should be able to ace splinting and strapping coding, which CPT lists in the 29000-29799 range (Application of casts and strapping).
Strapping: Strapping involves layers of tape, web roll and possibly an Ace bandage, according to clinical conventions. The patient retains some range of motion, but strapping’s non-rigid materials do support the joint.
Splinting: Splinting once involved plaster and fiberglass. Now, off-the-shelf, pre-made plastic products are widely available. They’re more rigid and provide greater support with less freedom and a smaller range of motion. Some of these products have HCPCS L codes, which you may need to report instead of, or in addition to, the splinting codes. Be sure to check payer requirements.
Potential pitfall: You can’t report fracture care for the same injury if you want to report a 29000-29799 code.
