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Rib fractures that necessitate internal fixation are often the result of significant blunt force trauma to the chest, which can occur during incidents such as falls or motor vehicle accidents. When a patient presents with a suspected rib fracture, a thorough assessment is conducted to identify any potential signs of internal injury, which may accompany the fracture. To confirm the diagnosis, radiographs (X-rays) are obtained, which are separately reportable and essential for visualizing the fracture. The surgical procedure begins with an incision made directly over the affected rib or ribs at the fracture site. Once the incision is made, the surgeon locates and removes any bone fragments and debris that may be present. The fractured rib or ribs are then carefully aligned to restore their proper position. To ensure stability and promote healing, an internal fixation device, such as a plate and screws, is employed to secure the fractured rib(s) in place. It is important to note that the codes for this procedure are specific to unilateral fractures; for instance, CPT® Code 0245T is designated for the internal fixation of a unilateral fracture involving 1-2 ribs. Other codes are available for different numbers of ribs affected, with CPT® Code 0246T for 3-4 ribs, CPT® Code 0247T for 5-6 ribs, and CPT® Code 0248T for 7 or more ribs.
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Rib fractures requiring internal fixation are indicated in cases where there is significant displacement of the rib fragments, which can lead to complications such as respiratory distress or internal organ injury. The following conditions may warrant the procedure:
The procedure for the open treatment of rib fractures requiring internal fixation involves several critical steps to ensure proper alignment and stabilization of the fractured ribs:
After the procedure, the patient is monitored for any signs of complications, such as infection or respiratory issues. Pain management is an important aspect of post-operative care, and patients may be prescribed analgesics to manage discomfort. The expected recovery period will vary depending on the extent of the injury and the individual patient's health status. Follow-up appointments are necessary to assess healing and ensure that the internal fixation device is functioning as intended. Patients are typically advised on activity restrictions to promote optimal recovery and prevent further injury.
| Short Descr | OPEN TX RIB FX 1-2 RIBS | Medium Descr | OPEN TX RIB FRACTURE W/INT FIX UNI 1-2 RIBS | Long Descr | Open treatment of rib fracture requiring internal fixation, unilateral; 1-2 ribs | Status Code | Carriers Price the Code | Global Days | XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply | PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) | 0 - Physician Service Code | Multiple Procedures (51) | 0 - No payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply. | Bilateral Surgery (50) | 0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply. | Physician Supervisions | 09 - Concept does not apply. | Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) | 0 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure... | Co-Surgeons (62) | 0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure. | Team Surgery (66) | 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure. | Diagnostic Imaging Family | 99 - Concept Does Not Apply | APC Status Indicator | Procedure or Service, Multiple Reduction Applies | Type of Service (TOS) | 2 - Surgery | Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) | P5E - Ambulatory procedures - other | MUE | Not applicable/unspecified. | CCS Clinical Classification | 148 - Other fracture and dislocation procedure |
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