CPT® Code 25136

1. Indications

The procedure coded under CPT® 25136 is indicated for the following conditions:

• Bone Cyst The presence of a cyst within the carpal bones that may cause pain or functional impairment.
• Benign Tumor The existence of a non-cancerous tumor in the wrist that requires removal to alleviate symptoms or prevent further complications.

2. Procedure

The procedure involves several key steps to ensure the effective removal of the bone cyst or benign tumor from the carpal bones:

• Step 1: Anesthesia Administration The patient is first administered appropriate anesthesia to ensure comfort during the procedure. This may involve local anesthesia to numb the specific area of the wrist or general anesthesia, depending on the extent of the surgery and the patient's needs.
• Step 2: Incision A surgical incision is made over the area of the wrist where the cyst or tumor is located. The incision is carefully planned to minimize damage to surrounding tissues and to facilitate access to the carpal bones.
• Step 3: Excision or Curettage The surgeon then proceeds to excise or curettage the cyst or benign tumor. This involves either cutting out the cyst or tumor entirely or scraping it away from the bone surface, ensuring that all abnormal tissue is removed to prevent recurrence.
• Step 4: Allograft Application After the removal of the cyst or tumor, the resulting defect in the bone is repaired using an allograft. This involves placing bone graft material from a donor patient into the area to promote healing and restore structural integrity to the wrist.
• Step 5: Closure Once the allograft is in place, the incision is closed using sutures or staples. The closure technique is chosen based on the size of the incision and the surgeon's preference.

3. Post-Procedure

Following the procedure, the patient will typically be monitored for any immediate complications. Post-operative care may include pain management, instructions for wound care, and guidelines for activity restrictions to promote healing. Patients are often advised to avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities for a specified period. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to assess the healing process and ensure that the allograft is integrating properly with the surrounding bone. Rehabilitation exercises may also be recommended to restore mobility and strength in the wrist as healing progresses.