2025 CPT code 24134

Surgical removal of a segment of dead bone (sequestrum) from the humeral shaft or distal humerus.

Follow all CPT coding guidelines, including those specific to the Musculoskeletal System section.Accurate documentation is crucial for appropriate code selection and reimbursement.

Modifiers may be applicable depending on the circumstances.For example, modifier 51 (Multiple Procedures) could be used if multiple procedures are performed during the same operative session. Modifier 76 (Repeat Procedure or Service by Same Physician or Other Qualified Health Care Professional) might be appropriate if the same procedure is repeated.

Medical necessity for a sequestrectomy is established by the presence of a sequestrum (piece of dead bone) secondary to osteomyelitis or a bone abscess.Failure to remove the infected bone can lead to persistent infection, pain, and potential limb loss.The procedure aims to arrest the infection, relieve pain, and preserve the integrity of the limb.

The surgeon makes an incision to access the infected bone, removes the necrotic bone, cleans the area, and closes the wound.Post-operative care is also a clinical responsibility.

IMPORTANT Related codes include 24136 (Sequestrectomy, radial head or neck), 24138 (Sequestrectomy, olecranon process), and 24140 (Partial excision [craterization, saucerization, or diaphysectomy] bone [e.g., osteomyelitis], humerus).Codes 23170, 23172, and 23174 address sequestrectomy in the clavicle, scapula, and humeral head, respectively.Incision and drainage codes (e.g., 23030, 23031, 23035) may be bundled depending on the circumstances.

In simple words: This surgery removes a piece of dead bone from the upper arm bone (humerus). It's done to treat bone infections or abscesses in the middle or lower part of the upper arm bone.

Sequestrectomy (e.g., for osteomyelitis or bone abscess) of the shaft or distal humerus involves the surgical removal of a sequestrum—a section of dead bone that has separated from the surrounding healthy bone tissue.This procedure is typically performed to treat osteomyelitis (bone infection) or bone abscesses in the specified area. The procedure involves accessing the necrotic bone, removing the infected tissue, and potentially filling the resulting cavity with surrounding tissue.Irrigation with an antibiotic solution is also usually performed, followed by wound closure.

Example 1: A patient presents with chronic osteomyelitis in the humeral shaft.A sequestrectomy is performed to remove the dead bone, followed by irrigation and debridement. The wound is closed primarily., A patient sustains a compound fracture of the distal humerus with subsequent osteomyelitis.After initial fracture care, a sequestrectomy is performed to remove the infected bone fragment.A drain may be placed., A patient experiences an acute bone abscess in the humeral shaft.The abscess is drained and the necrotic bone is removed via sequestrectomy.The cavity is packed with suitable material.

Preoperative and operative notes should clearly document the location and size of the sequestrum, the technique used for removal, type and amount of irrigation, any drainage placed, and the method of wound closure.Imaging studies (e.g., X-rays) should be included to demonstrate the presence and extent of the necrotic bone.Pathology reports confirming the diagnosis of osteomyelitis or bone abscess are also required.

** The terms "craterization," "saucerization," and "diaphysectomy" are related procedures that may involve partial bone excision, and appropriate codes should be considered in those cases.Accurate description of the surgical technique and extent of the procedure is vital for correct coding.

  • Revenue Code: P5B (AMBULATORY PROCEDURES - MUSCULOSKELETAL)
  • RVU: This information is not available in the provided text.Consult the CMS website for the most current RVU values.
  • Global Days : The global period for this procedure is not specified in the provided text.Consult the CPT manual or other relevant resources for clarification.
  • Payment Status: Active
  • Modifier TC rule: A technical component (TC) modifier is not typically applicable to this code.
  • Fee Schedule : Historical fee schedule data is not available in the provided text.Consult fee schedule databases or other relevant resources for this information.
  • Specialties:Orthopedic Surgery
  • Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center
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