2025 CPT code 23182
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Surgery - Partial Excision of Bone Musculoskeletal System Feed
Partial excision (craterization, saucerization, or diaphysectomy) of bone in the scapula, often due to osteomyelitis.
Modifiers may be applicable depending on the circumstances. For example, modifier 51 (multiple procedures) may be used if other procedures are performed at the same time. Modifier 76 (repeat procedure by the same physician) may be applied if the procedure is repeated. Consult the CPT manual for a comprehensive list of modifiers and their applications.
Medical necessity for this procedure is established when a patient presents with documented osteomyelitis of the scapula refractory to conservative management (antibiotics, etc.). The extent of the infection as documented on imaging studies justifies the need for partial bone excision.
The orthopedic surgeon or other qualified healthcare professional is responsible for performing the partial excision, ensuring proper surgical technique, managing any associated complications, and providing post-operative care.
In simple words: The doctor removes a portion of infected bone from the shoulder blade. This is usually done to treat a bone infection. The doctor might make a shallow, saucer-shaped cut to help drain the infection.
This CPT code, 23182, describes the surgical procedure of partially excising bone tissue from the scapula (shoulder blade).The excision may involve creating a crater-like or saucer-shaped depression (craterization or saucerization) or removing a portion of the bone shaft (diaphysectomy). This procedure is frequently performed to treat osteomyelitis (bone infection) by removing infected bone tissue, allowing drainage, and promoting healing.The procedure may include debridement of surrounding soft tissues if necessary, but extensive soft tissue work should be coded separately.The excised bone tissue is typically sent to a laboratory for pathological analysis.A drainage tube may be inserted post-operatively.
Example 1: A 55-year-old male presents with chronic osteomyelitis of the scapula following a previous fracture.The surgeon performs a partial excision (saucerization) to remove infected bone and facilitate drainage. A drain is placed. , A 70-year-old female develops an abscess in the scapula.The surgeon performs a partial excision (craterization) to remove the infected bone.Post-operative antibiotics are prescribed., A 22-year-old male sustains a severe open fracture of the scapula.After initial treatment, he develops osteomyelitis.The surgeon performs a diaphysectomy to remove the infected portion of the scapula shaft. Bone grafting may be required.
* Pre-operative and post-operative diagnoses, including imaging studies (X-rays, CT scans, MRI) demonstrating the infection.* Detailed operative report specifying the technique used (craterization, saucerization, diaphysectomy), amount of bone removed, and any other procedures performed.* Pathology report confirming the diagnosis of osteomyelitis.* Documentation of post-operative course, including complications and management.
** This procedure may be performed using various surgical techniques.Always code to the highest level of specificity possible based on the exact procedures and services performed.
- Revenue Code: P5B (Ambulatory Procedures - Musculoskeletal)
- RVU: The relative value units (RVUs) for this code vary based on geographic location, facility type (inpatient or outpatient), and payer.Consult the appropriate fee schedule for current RVU values.
- Global Days : The global surgical period for this procedure depends on the complexity of the surgery and other factors.Consult your local Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC) for specific guidelines.
- Payment Status: Active
- Modifier TC rule: Technical component (TC) modifiers generally do not apply to this code.
- Fee Schedule : Fee schedules vary by payer, region, and year.Historical fee data can be accessed via various databases, including those maintained by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).
- Specialties:Orthopedic Surgery
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center