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The procedure described by CPT® Code 20822 involves the replantation of a digit, specifically excluding the thumb, that has been completely amputated. This procedure is performed when a finger has been severed from the hand, typically occurring between the fingertip and the point where the finger connects to the palm. The replantation process is intricate and requires the physician to work under general anesthesia to ensure the patient is comfortable and pain-free during the operation. Initially, any damaged or necrotic tissue surrounding the amputation site is meticulously excised to prepare for the reattachment. Following this, the ends of the amputated bones are carefully trimmed to facilitate a more straightforward alignment and connection of the soft tissues surrounding the wound. This preparation is crucial as it aids in the subsequent suturing of vital structures, including arteries, veins, nerves, muscles, and tendons, which are essential for restoring function and sensation to the digit. In cases where there is a lack of skin coverage, a graft may be utilized to cover the exposed areas. Additionally, any uncovered nerves, tendons, and joints may require a free-tissue transfer, which includes the necessary blood supply through its accompanying artery and veins. Finally, the amputation site is closed in layers to promote optimal healing and recovery.
© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.
The replantation procedure described by CPT® Code 20822 is indicated for patients who have experienced a complete amputation of a digit, excluding the thumb. This procedure is typically performed in cases where the amputation occurs between the fingertip and the attachment of the finger to the palm. The indications for this procedure may include:
The replantation procedure involves several critical steps to ensure successful attachment and healing of the digit. The procedural steps include:
After the replantation procedure, patients typically require careful monitoring and follow-up care to ensure proper healing and function of the reattached digit. Post-procedure care may include pain management, wound care, and physical therapy to restore movement and strength. Patients are advised to keep the surgical site clean and dry, and to follow any specific instructions provided by the healthcare team regarding activity restrictions and signs of potential complications, such as infection or impaired blood flow. Regular follow-up appointments are essential to assess the healing process and to make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.
| Short Descr | REPLANTATION DIGIT COMPLETE | Medium Descr | RPLJ DGT EXCLUDING THMB SUBLIMIS TDN COMPL AMP | Long Descr | Replantation, digit, excluding thumb (includes distal tip to sublimis tendon insertion), complete amputation | Status Code | Active Code | Global Days | 090 - Major Surgery | PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) | 0 - Physician Service Code | Multiple Procedures (51) | 2 - Standard 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) | 2 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery does not apply to this procedure... | Co-Surgeons (62) | 1 - Co-surgeons could be paid, though supporting documentation is required... | Team Surgery (66) | 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure. | Diagnostic Imaging Family | 99 - Concept Does Not Apply | APC Status Indicator | Hospital Part B services paid through a comprehensive APC | ASC Payment Indicator | Non office-based surgical procedure added in CY 2008 or later; payment based on OPPS relative payment weight. | Type of Service (TOS) | 2 - Surgery | Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) | P3D - Major procedure, orthopedic - other | MUE | 3 | CCS Clinical Classification | 164 - Other OR therapeutic procedures on musculoskeletal system |
| 52 | Reduced services: under certain circumstances a service or procedure is partially reduced or eliminated at the discretion of the physician or other qualified health care professional. under these circumstances the service provided can be identified by its usual procedure number and the addition of modifier 52, signifying that the service is reduced. this provides a means of reporting reduced services without disturbing the identification of the basic service. note: for hospital outpatient reporting of a previously scheduled procedure/service that is partially reduced or cancelled as a result of extenuating circumstances or those that threaten the well-being of the patient prior to or after administration of anesthesia, see modifiers 73 and 74 (see modifiers approved for asc hospital outpatient use). | F1 | Left hand, second digit | F2 | Left hand, third digit | F8 | Right hand, fourth digit | GC | This service has been performed in part by a resident under the direction of a teaching physician | LT | Left side (used to identify procedures performed on the left side of the body) | QW | Clia waived test |
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| 2011-01-01 | Changed | Short description changed. |
| Pre-1990 | Added | Code added. |
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