Orthopedic Coding Alert

Question: Can we report a cast application code when the orthopedist casts a patient’s entire leg? If so, what differentiates the different leg cast codes?

Michigan Subscriber

Answer: Yes, you should be able to report the cast application if your provider treats a patient with an injury that requires it. For long-leg casts, you’ll choose from the following codes:

• 29345 — Application of long leg cast (thigh to toes)
• 29355 — … walker or ambulatory type
• 29358 — Application of long leg cast brace
• 29365 — Application of cylinder cast (thigh to ankle).

The cast the provider uses will depend on the type of fracture.

For short-leg casts, you’ll choose from the following codes:

• 29405 — Application of short leg cast (below knee to toes)
• 29425 — … walking or ambulatory type.

As with the long-leg casts, the cast the provider uses will depend on the patient’s injury.