Overview of CPT Code 25444: Open treatment of distal radius fracture

CPT Code 25444 refers to the open surgical treatment of a fracture in the distal radius, which is the larger of the two bones in the forearm. This procedure is typically performed when a fracture is displaced or unstable, requiring surgical intervention to realign and stabilize the bone.

When CPT Code 25444 is Used?

This code is applicable in various clinical scenarios, including:

Displaced distal radius fractures that cannot be aligned properly with non-surgical methods.
Fractures associated with significant wrist instability.
Fractures that have not healed properly with conservative treatment.
Fractures resulting from high-energy trauma, such as falls or accidents.

Symptoms Indicating This Procedure

Patients may present with the following symptoms:

Severe pain in the wrist area.
Swelling and bruising around the fracture site.
Decreased range of motion in the wrist.
Visible deformity or abnormal positioning of the wrist.

Causes and Risk Factors

Understanding the causes and risk factors can help in prevention and management.

Falls, particularly in older adults.
Sports injuries, especially in contact sports.
Osteoporosis, which weakens bones and increases fracture risk.
High-impact accidents, such as motor vehicle collisions.

Diagnostic Tests Before Procedure

Several diagnostic tests may be performed to confirm the need for surgery:

X-rays to visualize the fracture and assess its alignment.
CT scans for detailed imaging of complex fractures.
MRI in certain cases to evaluate soft tissue injuries.

Procedure Description

The open treatment of a distal radius fracture involves several key steps:

Administer anesthesia to ensure patient comfort.
Make an incision over the fracture site to access the bone.
Realign the fractured bone fragments into their proper position.
Stabilize the fracture using plates, screws, or pins.
Close the incision with sutures and apply a dressing.

Preparation for the Procedure

Patients should follow these steps to prepare for surgery:

Avoid eating or drinking for at least 8 hours before the procedure.
Discuss any medications with the surgeon, especially blood thinners.
Arrange for transportation to and from the surgical facility.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing on the day of surgery.

Recovery and Aftercare

Post-operative recovery typically involves:

A recovery period of 6 to 12 weeks, depending on the severity of the fracture.
Keeping the wrist elevated to reduce swelling.
Regular follow-up appointments to monitor healing.
Pain management with prescribed medications.

Possible Complications

While complications are rare, they can occur and may include:

Infection at the surgical site.
Nerve or blood vessel damage.
Nonunion or malunion of the fracture.
Stiffness or loss of motion in the wrist.

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Post-Procedure Follow-Up

Follow-up care is crucial for optimal recovery:

Initial follow-up within 1 to 2 weeks post-surgery.
Subsequent visits every 4 to 6 weeks to assess healing.
Physical therapy may be recommended to regain strength and mobility.

Alternative Treatments

Non-surgical options may be considered in certain cases:

Casting or splinting for stable fractures.
Physical therapy to improve function and strength.
Pain management with medications and ice therapy.

Home Care Tips

Patients can follow these tips for effective home care:

Keep the surgical area clean and dry.
Follow medication instructions carefully.
Engage in gentle exercises as advised by the physician.
Monitor for signs of infection, such as increased redness or swelling.

Patient Education & Prevention

Educating patients on prevention can reduce recurrence:

Engage in strength training and balance exercises.
Use protective gear during sports and activities.
Maintain bone health through diet and supplements.
Avoid high-risk activities if prone to falls.

Billing and Coding Information

CPT Code: 25444

Category: Surgery

Common Modifiers:

50 - Bilateral procedure
RT - Right side
LT - Left side

Average Cost and Insurance Coverage

Costs can vary based on several factors:

Average cost ranges from $5,000 to $15,000 depending on facility and complexity.
Most insurance plans cover the procedure, but verification is recommended.
Out-of-pocket costs may apply depending on the insurance policy.