Removal of Orthopedic Fixation (Codes 20670 and 20680) (June 2009)

June 2009 pages 7-9 Coding Clarification: Removal of Orthopedic Fixation (Codes 20670 and 20680 ) All forms of treating bone fracture(s) follow one basic rule: the fragments must be reapproximated and immobilized in proper position until they are healed, with new bone being formed around the edges of the broken fragment(s). The specific method of treatment depends on: the severity of the break; whether it is "open" or "closed;" and the specific bone involved—that is, a broken bone in the spine (vertebra) is treated differently from a broken leg bone or a broken rib. Orthopedic fixation devices...

Subscribe or sign in to view the full article.

articles:    previous index next
Note:  The following article synopsis was NOT provided by the AMA. It was created by Find-A-Code/innoviHealth.

Article Overview

This CPT Assistant article explains coding considerations for orthopedic fixation removal and related external fixation services. It is aimed at medical coders, billing staff, and orthopedic practices that need to understand how the article frames hardware removal scenarios, related procedures, and the reporting of multiple services in the same session. The discussion includes broad guidance, examples, and references tied to fracture fixation and implant removal.

Why This Topic Matters

Orthopedic hardware removal can involve multiple implant types, sites, and procedural contexts, so understanding the article helps identify when related CPT services are being discussed and how the premium guidance is organized.

Article Sections

  1. June 2009 pages 7-9

    Publication and source context for the coding clarification article.

  2. Coding Clarification: Removal of Orthopedic Fixation (Codes 20670 and 20680)

    Overview of orthopedic fixation removal and the surrounding clinical and procedural context discussed in the article.

  3. Removal of Hardware

    General discussion of fixation removal, external fixation systems, and related CPT reporting considerations.

  4. Uniplane ExternalFixation System

    Section focused on external fixation system context and how removal is addressed in relation to the broader fixation discussion.

  5. Examples of Use of Codes 20670 and 20680

    Illustrative scenarios used to compare different fixation removal situations across several anatomic sites and implant configurations.

  6. Removal of Deep or Superficial Bimalleolar Plate and Screws

    Example section addressing ankle fixation removal scenarios involving different implant locations and levels of removal.

  7. Removal of Plate and IM Nail and Interlocking Screws—Proximal Tibial Plateau and Tibial Shaft Fractures (Noncontiguous Fractures)

    Example section covering hardware removal from separate fracture sites in the tibia during the same surgical session.

  8. Removal of Separate Plate/Screw Systems—Both Bone Forearm Fracture

    Example section addressing hardware removal from separate bones in a forearm fracture context.

  9. References

    Source citations supporting the coding clarification article.

What You Will Learn

  • How the article frames orthopedic fixation removal in relation to fracture care
  • How the article distinguishes broader external fixation topics from implant removal topics
  • What kinds of example scenarios are used to illustrate reporting considerations
  • Which professional sources are cited in support of the guidance

Who Should Read This

  • Medical coders
  • Billing and reimbursement staff
  • Orthopedic practices
  • Compliance and coding educators

Codes Discussed

Code Ranges Discussed

Modifiers Discussed


Subscribe or sign in to view the full article.

Access to this feature is available in the following products:
  • AMA's CPT® Assistant & CER - Current + Archives/Advanced Coding Pack

Boost Your Coding Precision with CPT Assistant

Welcome to the ultimate resource for mastering CPT coding – the CPT® Assistant. This indispensable tool, brought to you by the American Medical Association (AMA), is designed specifically for medical coders, auditors, and billers who strive for accuracy and efficiency in their daily work with patient charts. Whether you are validating codes, training staff, or appealing insurance denials, CPT Assistant provides the authoritative guidance you need to excel.

Features

CPT Assistant

  • Expert Insights: Explanations and interpretations by the CPT Assistant Editorial Board.

  • Curated Content: Articles addressing key coding topics are meticulously curated for your convenience.

  • Visual Learning: Detailed examples, charts, graphs and illustrations to help you understand correct coding practices.

  • Monthly Updates: Regular updates on the latest coding changes and best practices.

  • Extensive Archive: Access more than 25 years of historical reference material.

  • Search Capabilities: Enjoy simple and effective search functions by keyword, code number, or article index.

Advantages and Benefits

With CPT Assistant, you can navigate the complexities of medical coding with unparalleled confidence. This resource offers authoritative answers and expert explanations that help reduce coding errors, leading to fewer claim denials and streamlined appeals processes. The comprehensive archive of articles, updated monthly, ensures you always have the most current information at your fingertips, enhancing your ability to stay ahead of industry changes and trends.

CPT Assistant’s visual aids, such as anatomical illustrations and procedural charts, make complex codes easier to understand, improving your accuracy and efficiency. By integrating this resource into your daily workflow, you can save valuable time and enhance your productivity.

Furthermore, CPT Assistant supports your professional growth by providing ongoing education and insights that keep you informed about the latest coding practices. This not only boosts your professional credibility but also enhances your ability to train and support your team effectively.

Get Started Today

Unlock your full potential and boost your coding capabilities with CPT Assistant today and experience the benefits of having a reliable, comprehensive coding resource at your disposal.

Contact Find-A-Code Customer Support for more information and to get started.


Related Articles

Articles are listed in order of calculated relevance.

demo
request yours today
 subscribe
start today
 newsletter
free subscription

Thank you for choosing Find-A-Code, please Sign In to remove ads.

Aimee- AI -powered coding assistant - Try it now for Free Would you like Aimee - AI
to help you with this?