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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. These types of injuries can lead to complications, including potential internal injuries, which require careful assessment by medical professionals. To confirm the presence and extent of the fracture, separate radiographic imaging is performed. The surgical procedure begins with an incision made directly over the affected rib or ribs at the fracture site. During the operation, the surgeon locates and removes any bone fragments and debris that may be present. The fractured rib or ribs are then realigned to their proper anatomical position. To ensure stability and promote healing, an internal fixation device, such as a plate and screws, is employed to secure the fractured ribs. It is important to note that this specific code pertains to the treatment of unilateral rib fractures involving seven or more ribs. For fewer ribs, different codes are utilized: CPT® Code 0245T is designated for the internal fixation of one to two ribs, CPT® Code 0246T for three to four ribs, and CPT® Code 0247T for five to six 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 effective stabilization of the fractured ribs. The following outlines the procedural steps:
After the procedure, the patient is monitored for any signs of complications, such as infection or respiratory distress. Pain management is initiated, and the patient may be advised on breathing exercises to prevent complications such as pneumonia. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to assess the healing process and to determine when the patient can safely resume normal activities. The expected recovery time may vary depending on the extent of the injury and the patient's overall health.
| Short Descr | OPEN TX RIB FX 7/> RIBS | Medium Descr | OPEN TX RIB FRACTURE W/INT FIXATION UNI 7/> RIBS | Long Descr | Open treatment of rib fracture requiring internal fixation, unilateral; 7 or more 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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