As we step into a new year, the medical coding landscape continues to evolve with the introduction of the new CPT codes 2024, particularly in the field of orthopaedic surgery. These changes reflect the ongoing efforts to enhance clinical precision and billing efficiency in healthcare. Staying ahead of these updates is crucial for healthcare professionals, coders, and billers alike, as they play a pivotal role in ensuring accurate documentation and reimbursement. The 2024 updates bring with them a few new codes, modifications, and clarifications, all designed to address the complexities of modern orthopaedic procedures and treatments.
This year, the new cpt codes spotlight is on vertebral body tethering (VBT) codes, bunion correction clarifications, the addition of clarifying language for hallux valgus/bunion correction codes, and several new Category III codes. These changes not only reflect the dynamic nature of medical technology and procedures but also underscore the importance of continuous learning and adaptation in the field of medical coding.
Vertebral Body Tethering: New CPT Codes in 2024
CPT 2024 introduces four new codes for vertebral body tethering (VBT), a procedure performed to treat adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Vertebral body tethering changes the growth of the spine to correct scoliosis. It allows the spine to continue to grow during treatment. Vertebral body tethering requires several small incisions. Small screws are placed along the outside edge of the spinal curve and a strong, flexible cord is threaded through the screws. When the cord is tightened, the spine straightens.
The new Category I codes are:
22836- Anterior thoracic vertebral body tethering, including thoracoscopy, when performed, up to 7 vertebral segments
22837- Anterior thoracic vertebral body tethering, including thoracoscopy, when performed, 8 or more vertebral segments
22838- Revision (eg, augmentation, division of tether), replacement, or removal of thoracic vertebral body tethering, including thoracoscopy, when performed
The new Category III code is:
0790T- Revision (eg, augmentation, division of tether), replacement, or removal of thoracolumbar or lumbar vertebral body tethering, including thoracoscopy, when performed
Revised Category III codes are:
0656T- Anterior lumbar or thoracolumbar vertebral body tethering, up to 7 vertebral segments
0657T- Anterior lumbar or thoracolumbar vertebral body tethering, 8 or more vertebral segments
Coding Clarification: Bunion correction
Changes have been made to CPT codes 28292 and 28295-28299, adding the word “with” to the base code description.
28292- Correction, hallux valgus with (bunionectomy), with sesamoidectomy, when performed
This change was necessary as many incorrectly reported codes in the 28292 and 28295-28299 code family for hallux valgus correction without bunion resection. Adding “with” to the code description clarifies that the surgical procedures reported by codes 28292 and 28295-28299 should inherently include the removal of the bunion by excision or resection.
To prevent inappropriate reporting of code 28297, parenthetical notes were added following codes 28297 and 28740 clarifying that code 28740 should be reported if a first tarsometatarsal (metatarsal-cuneiform) joint fusion is performed that does not include an associated removal of the distal medial prominence of the first metatarsal to accomplish the correction of a hallux valgus.
Another New Category III code
0814T- Percutaneous injection of calcium-based biodegradable osteoconductive material, proximal femur, including imaging guidance, unilateral.
This category III code was established to report percutaneous injection of calcium-based biodegradable osteoconductive material. The procedure involves implanting a calcium-based, osteoconductive material into the lateral femoral cortex to form new bone in voids in the proximal femur of patients with disorders such as osteoporosis. The procedure is performed under image guidance.
New CPT Codes for 2024 Conclusion
In conclusion, the new cpt codes 2024 for orthopaedic surgery signify an important step forward in the realm of medical coding and billing. They provide a framework that more accurately represents current surgical practices and techniques. For medical professionals, staying updated with these changes is not just about compliance; it's about ensuring the best possible care for patients through precise and up-to-date coding practices. As the medical field continues to advance, so does the need for coders and practitioners to remain informed and skilled in navigating these changes.
As we wrap up our exploration of the new cpt codes 2024, it's clear that the ongoing updates to the CPT codes are more than mere administrative changes; they are a reflection of the evolving landscape of medical care and treatment. Embracing these changes and integrating them into your coding practices will not only enhance billing accuracy but also contribute to the broader goal of improved patient care through better healthcare documentation. The new CPT codes for 2024 are here, and they are an essential tool in the ever-advancing field of medical coding. Contact us today for any medical coding needs you may have!