Overview of CPT Code 24495: Revision of Forearm Tendon Repair

CPT Code 24495 refers to the surgical procedure for the revision of a tendon repair in the forearm. This procedure is typically performed when a previous tendon repair has failed or is not healing properly, necessitating a surgical intervention to restore function and alleviate pain.

When CPT Code 24495 is Used?

This code is applicable in various clinical scenarios, including:

Failure of a previous tendon repair in the forearm.
Persistent pain or dysfunction following an initial tendon repair.
Re-tear of the tendon after surgical repair.
Infection or complications arising from the initial repair.

Symptoms Indicating This Procedure

Patients may report several symptoms that indicate the need for this procedure, including:

Severe pain in the forearm that does not improve with conservative treatment.
Weakness or inability to use the affected hand or wrist.
Swelling or tenderness around the surgical site.
Limited range of motion in the forearm or wrist.

Causes and Risk Factors

Several factors can contribute to the need for a revision tendon repair, including:

Inadequate initial repair technique.
Poor healing due to underlying medical conditions (e.g., diabetes).
Infection at the surgical site.
Excessive strain or use of the tendon before full healing.

Diagnostic Tests Before Procedure

Before proceeding with the revision surgery, several diagnostic tests may be conducted:

MRI to assess the integrity of the tendon and surrounding structures.
Ultrasound to evaluate tendon movement and any fluid accumulation.
X-rays to rule out any bone-related issues.
Physical examination to assess range of motion and pain levels.

Procedure Description

The revision of forearm tendon repair involves several key steps:

Administer anesthesia to ensure patient comfort.
Make an incision over the previous surgical site.
Carefully dissect to expose the tendon and assess the repair.
Remove any scar tissue or non-viable tendon tissue.
Reattach the tendon using appropriate sutures or fixation devices.
Close the incision with sutures or staples.
Apply a dressing and possibly a splint to immobilize the area.

Preparation for the Procedure

Patients should follow these steps to prepare for the surgery:

Consult with the surgeon about medications to avoid prior to surgery.
Arrange for transportation to and from the surgical facility.
Follow pre-operative fasting instructions as directed.
Discuss any allergies or medical conditions with the healthcare team.

Recovery and Aftercare

Post-operative recovery typically involves:

Resting the affected arm and avoiding strenuous activities.
Keeping the surgical site clean and dry.
Taking prescribed pain medications as needed.
Attending follow-up appointments to monitor healing.

Possible Complications

As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks, including:

Infection at the surgical site.
Nerve damage leading to numbness or weakness.
Re-tear of the tendon.
Scarring or stiffness in the forearm.

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Post-Procedure Follow-Up

Follow-up care is crucial for successful recovery:

Initial follow-up within 1-2 weeks post-surgery.
Regular assessments every few weeks to monitor healing.
Physical therapy may be recommended to regain strength and mobility.

Alternative Treatments

Before considering surgery, patients may explore these options:

Physical therapy to strengthen the forearm and improve function.
Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation.
Bracing or splinting to immobilize the tendon during healing.
Activity modification to avoid aggravating the injury.

Home Care Tips

Patients can follow these tips for effective home care:

Keep the surgical area clean and dry.
Apply ice packs to reduce swelling.
Follow the prescribed medication regimen.
Engage in gentle movements as advised by the healthcare provider.

Patient Education & Prevention

To prevent recurrence, patients should consider:

Adhering to rehabilitation exercises post-surgery.
Avoiding repetitive strain on the forearm.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle to promote healing.
Regular check-ups to monitor tendon health.

Billing and Coding Information

CPT Code: 24495

Category: Surgery

Common Modifiers:

50 (bilateral procedure)
RT (right side)
LT (left side)

Average Cost and Insurance Coverage

The cost of the procedure can vary widely:

Average cost ranges from $5,000 to $15,000 depending on facility and complexity.
Most insurance plans cover the procedure if deemed medically necessary.
Patients should verify coverage details with their insurance provider.