ED Coding and Reimbursement Alert
Ankle Strapping
Arkansas Subscriber
Answer: The strapping procedure immobilizes a joint with tape and other materials, but not plaster or other casting material used for more rigid immobilization. ACE bandages alone do not immobilize a joint. Typically, the use of an ACE bandage is billed using the appropriate E/M service code (99281-99285). A common case of strapping involves using a shoulder sling and swath to immobilize a shoulder joint. This treatment is a spontaneous dislocation/relocation of a shoulder. The key to strapping is immobilizing a joint. Documentation should address immobilization as the objective in protecting the joint.
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