2025 CPT code 20694

Removal, under anesthesia, of external fixation system.

Refer to CPT guidelines for musculoskeletal surgery and fracture/dislocation treatment for coding accuracy.

Modifiers may be applicable in certain situations (e.g., unusual procedural services, repeat procedures by the same or different physician).

Medical necessity must be established by documenting the presence of a healed fracture or the successful completion of the treatment requiring external fixation, justifying the removal of the device.

The physician is responsible for the entire procedure, including prepping the patient, administering anesthesia, detaching the external fixator components, removing the pins/screws, ensuring complete hardware removal, wound care (packing and suturing), and post-operative instructions.

In simple words: The doctor removes the metal frame and pins that were holding your bones in place while they healed. This is done in a surgery room while you are asleep so you don't feel any pain.

This code describes the removal of an external fixation system while the patient is under anesthesia.External fixation systems are used to stabilize fractures and other bone injuries. The removal procedure involves detaching the external components (rings or rods) and then removing the pins or screws that are inserted into the bone. The process requires careful manipulation to avoid further injury and ensure complete removal of all hardware.

Example 1: A patient who had an external fixator placed for a tibial fracture several weeks prior now has a healed fracture and requires removal of the external fixation system., A patient underwent limb lengthening with an external fixator. After achieving the desired length and bone consolidation, the external fixator needs to be removed. , Following a complex foot surgery requiring temporary stabilization, a patient has the external fixator removed after sufficient healing.

Documentation should include: type of external fixator used, location of application, date of original application, operative report detailing the removal procedure, anesthesia records, and post-operative instructions.

** Removal of external fixators can sometimes be complex, especially if pins are stuck or there is significant soft tissue involvement. Additional procedures, like debridement or soft tissue repair, may be required and should be coded separately.

  • Revenue Code: P5B
  • Specialties:Orthopedic Surgery, Trauma Surgery
  • Place of Service:Ambulatory Surgical Center, Outpatient Hospital, Inpatient Hospital (if complications arise)
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