Orthopedic Coding Alert
Reader Questions:
Discover How to Code This Elbow Explant
Published on Tue Feb 25, 2014
Question: Our orthopedist saw a patient who had a severe infection around her elbow implant. The surgeon removed the implant. How do I code an elbow explant?
Indiana Subscriber
Answer: Check the chart documentation to verify exactly what the surgeon removed; your best choice should be 24160 (Removal of prosthesis, includes debridement and synovectomy when performed; humeral and ulnar components).
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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