2025 CPT code 20979
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Surgery - Fracture and/or Dislocation Treatment Musculoskeletal System Feed
Low-intensity ultrasound stimulation to aid bone healing, noninvasive (nonoperative).
Modifiers may be applicable depending on the circumstances of service, such as modifier 59 (distinct procedural service) if LIPUS is performed in conjunction with other procedures. Consult current CPT guidelines for specific modifier use.
Medical necessity for LIPUS is typically established when a fracture fails to heal adequately through conventional methods after a reasonable time frame.This may involve delayed union or nonunion, particularly in cases complicated by comorbidities or other factors hindering bone healing. Documentation should support the need for the intervention and the anticipated clinical improvement.
The physician or qualified healthcare professional applies a conductive gel to the skin over the fracture site, positions the ultrasound transducer, and administers the treatment for the prescribed duration. They should also monitor the patient's response and document the procedure appropriately.
In simple words: This treatment uses special sound waves to help a broken bone heal faster. A device is placed on the skin over the break, sending sound waves into the bone to help it heal. It usually takes about 20 minutes.
Low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) stimulation is a non-invasive therapeutic procedure used to accelerate the healing of fractures.The treatment involves applying a transducer to the skin over the fracture site after applying a conductive gel.Ultrasound waves are transmitted to the fracture for approximately 20 minutes per session, stimulating cellular activity and bone growth.This procedure is typically used for fractures that are slow to heal or have failed to heal completely (nonunion).
Example 1: A patient with a distal radius fracture that has not healed after three months of standard care receives LIPUS therapy to accelerate bone healing., A patient with a tibial diaphysis fracture, complicated by diabetes and poor vascularity, is treated with LIPUS to enhance bone regeneration., A patient with a nonunion fracture of the femur after a motor vehicle accident undergoes LIPUS therapy as an adjunct to surgical intervention, aiming for enhanced fracture consolidation.
* Detailed history and physical examination findings, including the mechanism of injury and prior treatment attempts.* Radiographic imaging (X-rays) demonstrating the fracture and its healing progress.Serial X-rays are generally required to track the treatment's efficacy.* Documentation of the specific device used for LIPUS therapy, treatment parameters (intensity, duration), and the number of treatments administered.* Patient's response to therapy and any adverse effects observed.
** The efficacy of LIPUS in fracture healing remains a subject of ongoing research.Specific indications, contraindications, and treatment protocols should be based on the most current clinical guidelines and evidence-based practices. Reimbursement policies can vary significantly among payers. Always confirm coverage before providing the service.
- Payment Status: Active
- Specialties:Orthopedic Surgery, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
- Place of Service:Office, Outpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center