Wiki Open reduction/internal fixation of sternum

GIBBERS

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One of my cardiac surgeons recently did an open reduction and internal fixation of the sternum using the "biomet plating system" on a patient who recently had aortic aneurysm repair, now with unstable sternum.

The only cpt code that i have used for sternal closure is '21750'. Has anyone ever coded the above, and if so, what cpt code was used?
Thanks!
 
I would use 21825 to code the procedure that you described.

Code 21750 is more for when they have to go in and debride the sternum.
 
Thank you for your help :)
I still think though that maybe there should be another code to go with it. It sounds like alot more work involved then just closing the sternum with wires, (21750) and cpt 21825 actually allows less then 21750.
Any other suggestions, anyone?
 
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