Wiki external fixation with closed reduction

[NEOSM507]

An orthopedic had to apply an external fixation in order to reduce an ankle fracture. Should he bill for the external fixation only or both the eternal fixation and a closed reduction? The patient will require a second procedure in which ORIF will be performed.

Thank you

 

[Orthocoderpgu]

Depends on what was done

This is actually common for ankle fractures. If the physician manipulated the fracture, then you can bill fracture care with the external fixation. Use modifier -58 when the ORIF is performed usually about 10-14 days later. If the physician did not manipulate the fracture before applying the external fixator, I would only bill the fixator.