Orthopedic Coding Alert

Question: Encounter notes indicate that the provider performed closed treatment of an ulnar fracture. There was no mention of manipulation in the notes, but they did reference “olecranon process.” Is this another procedure I should be coding for?

Arkansas Subscriber

Answer: No, you should not be submitting a code for an olecranon process; the term relates to anatomy. Specifically, the olecranon process is the process of the ulna that forms the outer bump (or point) of the elbow. The olecranon process fits into the fossa of the humerus when a patient extends their arm.

On your claim, report 24670 (Closed treatment of ulnar fracture, proximal end (eg, olecranon or coronoid process[es]); without manipulation) for the procedure.