CPT Coding for Rib Fracture Care (August 2015)

Why This Topic Matters

Rib fracture coding changed in 2015, and the article helps readers understand which CPT musculoskeletal codes were removed, which new codes were introduced, and how the update affects reporting for thoracic rib fixation services.

Article Sections

1. CPT Coding for Rib Fracture Care

   Overview of the 2015 CPT update affecting rib fracture care and musculoskeletal procedure reporting.

2. New Codes

   Summary of the revised code set and the general reporting structure introduced for these procedures.

3. Fracture and/or Dislocation

   Placement of the updated rib fracture codes within the broader musculoskeletal section and related cross-references.

4. Coding Tip

   General guidance on how the updated rib fracture procedure codes are categorized for reporting purposes.

5. Clinical Example (21811)

   A case illustration and associated procedural narrative for one of the revised rib fracture fixation codes.

6. Description of Procedure (21811)

   Procedural narrative corresponding to the first rib fracture fixation example.

7. Clinical Example (21812)

   A case illustration and associated procedural narrative for another revised rib fracture fixation code.

8. Description of Procedure (21812)

   Procedural narrative corresponding to the second rib fracture fixation example.

9. Clinical Example (21813)

   A case illustration and associated procedural narrative for the highest rib-count fixation code.

10. Description of Procedure (21813)

    Procedural narrative corresponding to the third rib fracture fixation example.