Overview of CPT Code 25685: Open treatment of distal radius fracture

CPT Code 25685 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 25685 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 report the following symptoms:

Severe pain in the wrist area.
Swelling and bruising around the fracture site.
Inability to move the wrist or fingers.
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 car crashes.

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 some 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:

Discuss any medications with the surgeon, especially blood thinners.
Avoid eating or drinking for a specified period before surgery.
Arrange for transportation to and from the surgical facility.
Wear loose-fitting clothing on the day of the procedure.

Recovery and Aftercare

Post-operative recovery typically involves:

Wearing a splint or cast for several weeks to immobilize the wrist.
Taking prescribed pain medications as needed.
Attending follow-up appointments to monitor healing.
Engaging in physical therapy to regain strength and mobility.

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 successful recovery:

Initial follow-up within 1-2 weeks post-surgery to check the incision.
Regular visits every 4-6 weeks to monitor bone healing.
Physical therapy sessions as recommended by the surgeon.

Alternative Treatments

Non-surgical options may include:

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

Home Care Tips

Patients can follow these tips for better recovery at home:

Keep the wrist elevated to reduce swelling.
Apply ice packs to the area as directed.
Follow the surgeon's instructions for wound care.
Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities until cleared.

Patient Education & Prevention

Educating patients on prevention is key:

Engage in weight-bearing exercises to strengthen bones.
Ensure home safety to prevent falls.
Consider bone density testing if at risk for osteoporosis.

Billing and Coding Information

CPT Code: 25685

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 patients should verify with their provider.