Orthopedic Coding Alert
READER QUESTION:
Ulna and Tibia Fractures
Published on Fri Nov 01, 2002
Question: Which code should we use when reducing a distal ulna fracture? Denver Subscriber Answer: If the fracture falls in the distal end of the ulnar shaft, you should report 25535 (Closed treatment of ulnar shaft fracture; with manipulation) for closed reduction. If the orthopedist performs an open treatment of the ulnar shaft fracture, use 25545 (Open treatment of ulnar shaft fracture, with or without internal or external fixation).
For fractures of the ulnar styloid, CPT added two additional codes in 2002: 25651 (Percutaneous skeletal fixation of ulnar styloid fracture) and 25652 (Open treatment of ulnar styloid fracture).
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Orthopedic Coding Alert
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Coding Three Knee Joint Compartments Is No Longer a Snap
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Thermal Capsulorrhaphy With SLAPLesion
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Coders can streamline nerve conduction study (NCS) claims by reporting multiple NCS units only if [...] - Modifier of the Month:
Use Modifier -78 Only for Related Procedures
Orthopedists whose patients must return to the operating room for additional treatment during the global [...] - READER QUESTION:
Ulna and Tibia Fractures
Question: Which code should we use when reducing a distal ulna fracture? Denver Subscriber Answer: [...] - READER QUESTION:
Bilateral X-Rays
Question: Can we use modifier -50 (Bilateral procedure) with x-ray codes such as 73560 (Radiologic [...] - READER QUESTION:
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Question: Our hand surgeon performed a polydactyl removal of right and left thumbs (no bone). [...] - READER QUESTION:
Bankart Lesion Code
Question: Is there an ICD-9 code designated for a Bankart lesion? Tennessee Subscriber Answer: CMS [...] - READER QUESTION:
Shoulder Debridement
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Carpal Boss
Question: Is there a code for excision of carpal boss or spurringo carpometacarpal joint? I [...] - READER QUESTION:
PA Performing Preoperative Exam
Question: For elective surgery, our physician assistant (PA) usually performs the history and physical (H&P) [...] - READER QUESTION:
Pin Removal
Question: In the September 2002 issue, you suggested that modifier -58 (Staged or related procedure [...]
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