Many codes lose modifier 51-exempt status, including some add-ons

Why This Topic Matters

These updates affect how orthopedic procedures are categorized and tracked in CPT, which can influence reporting accuracy and payer processing. The article helps readers identify where code-set changes occurred and which specialties and procedure families are impacted.

Article Sections

1. Codes with significant pre- and post-operative service time

   Discusses a group of orthopedic CPT codes identified in connection with service-time considerations and modifier 51-exempt status. The section focuses on the affected code family and the broader payment context.

2. Add-on codes

   Covers orthopedic graft and instrumentation add-on codes and related status changes. It also notes associated code relationships and payer-processing considerations at a general level.

3. New codes added for computer assisted surgical navigation

   Introduces new musculoskeletal navigation codes and compares them with older Category III reporting pathways. The section also addresses general reporting context involving imaging approach and related exclusions.

4. New codes for three-column osteotomy

   Describes new spinal osteotomy codes and accompanying guidance concepts for thoracic and lumbar procedures. It also notes related procedure families referenced alongside the new codes.

5. Expect more flexible tenotomy codes, old fasciotomy codes deleted

   Summarizes new elbow tenotomy codes and the deletion of older fasciotomy-related codes. The section covers the general reporting changes for this procedure area.

6. New proximal end femoral head fracture repair codes

   Introduces new fracture treatment codes for proximal femoral head injuries. It also references adjacent hip procedure codes discussed in the same context.

7. New code for open osteochondral autografts

   Covers a new knee osteochondral autograft code and related arthroscopic and open procedure context. The section discusses how this code family fits into knee cartilage repair reporting.

8. New code for arthroscopic tenodesis of biceps

   Describes a new shoulder arthroscopy code for biceps tenodesis and contrasts it with open biceps tenodesis reporting. It also mentions related shoulder arthroscopy procedures in the same area.