2025 CPT code 20670
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Surgery - Musculoskeletal System Feed
Removal of a superficial implant (e.g., buried wire, pin, or rod) as a separate procedure.
Modifiers may be applicable. Refer to current CPT guidelines for appropriate use of modifiers.
Medical necessity should be established by documenting the reason for implant removal, such as complete fracture healing, implant-related complications, or patient request based on clinical rationale.
The physician preps the patient, provides anesthesia, makes a small incision, removes the implant, and closes the wound with sutures or adhesive strips.
In simple words: Removal of a small implant just under the skin.
This code describes the removal of a superficially implanted device, such as a wire, pin, or rod, that is located close to the skin surface.It is considered a separate procedure and does not include the removal of deeper implants requiring more extensive dissection.
Example 1: A patient had a Kirschner wire placed for a finger fracture and now requires removal after healing., Removal of a superficially placed pin from a wrist fracture after the bone has united., A patient has a subcutaneous rod that needs to be removed after a soft tissue procedure.
Documentation should support the type and location of the implant, the reason for removal, the procedure performed for removal, and the wound closure technique.
** Refer to official CPT coding guidelines for up-to-date and complete information, as code information and payer rules may change.
- Revenue Code: P6B
- Specialties:Orthopedic Surgery, General Surgery, Plastic Surgery, and potentially others, based on the specific procedure.
- Place of Service:Office, Outpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center, and other settings depending on payer guidelines and medical necessity.