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Orthopedic Coding Alert

READER QUESTIONS:

Choose 24160 for Elbow Explant

Published on Sat Feb 27, 2010

Question: Our orthopedist saw a patient who had an extreme infection around her elbow implant. The surgeon removed the implant. How do I code an elbow explant?Indiana SubscriberAnswer: Check the chart documentation to verify exactly what the surgeon removed; your best choice should be 24160 (Implant removal; elbow joint).Remember: According to Medicare, an implant replaces a body part and fixation devices (such as screws, pins, or plates) are classified as supplies or hardware. Ensure that your physician truly removed an implant before submitting 24160.
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