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Official Description

Osteotomy, radius; middle or proximal third

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

An osteotomy of the radius, specifically coded as CPT® 25355, is a surgical procedure aimed at correcting a deformity or realigning the bone in the middle or proximal third of the radius. The term 'osteotomy' refers to the surgical cutting of bone, which is performed to address various deformities that may affect the radius, the bone located in the forearm. The specific type of osteotomy performed can vary based on the nature and location of the deformity, with options including transverse, wedge, sliding, right or left angle, V-osteotomy, and Z-osteotomy. Prior to the surgical intervention, the physician utilizes radiographic studies to accurately determine the optimal site for the bone cut, ensuring that the procedure is tailored to achieve the desired alignment and correction. The surgical approach involves making an incision over the radius, followed by careful dissection of the soft tissues to expose the bone. The periosteum, a dense layer of connective tissue surrounding the bone, is elevated to facilitate access. The actual osteotomy is executed using surgical instruments such as a drill, saw, or osteotome to create the bone cut in the predetermined configuration. In some cases, bone grafts may be interposed between the cut segments to promote healing and stability. To secure the bone in its new position, various internal fixation devices, such as pins, screws, or plates, may be employed. Alternatively, an external fixation device can be used if deemed appropriate. It is important to note that CPT® 25355 is specifically designated for osteotomies performed on the middle or proximal radius, while a different code, 25350, is used for osteotomies of the distal radius.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The procedure coded as CPT® 25355 is indicated for various conditions that necessitate the correction of deformities or misalignments in the radius. These indications may include:

  • Deformity Correction - The procedure is performed to correct congenital or acquired deformities of the radius that may affect function or aesthetics.
  • Realignment of Bone - Osteotomy may be indicated to realign the radius following trauma or fractures that have healed improperly.
  • Relief of Pain - Patients experiencing pain due to malalignment or deformity of the radius may benefit from this surgical intervention.
  • Improvement of Function - The procedure aims to restore normal function and range of motion in the forearm and wrist by correcting the alignment of the radius.

2. Procedure

The surgical procedure for CPT® 25355 involves several critical steps to ensure successful osteotomy of the middle or proximal radius. These steps include:

  • Preoperative Planning - Prior to the surgery, the physician conducts radiographic studies to determine the precise location and configuration of the osteotomy required to achieve optimal alignment of the radius.
  • Incision and Exposure - An incision is made over the targeted area of the radius. The surgeon carefully dissects the soft tissues to expose the bone, ensuring minimal damage to surrounding structures.
  • Elevation of the Periosteum - The periosteum, which is the fibrous tissue covering the bone, is elevated to provide access to the bone surface for the osteotomy.
  • Bone Cutting - Using a drill, saw, or osteotome, the surgeon performs the osteotomy by cutting the radius in the predetermined configuration, which may vary based on the specific deformity being addressed.
  • Interposition of Bone Grafts - If necessary, bone grafts are placed between the cut segments of the radius to facilitate healing and maintain stability during the recovery process.
  • Application of Fixation Devices - The surgeon secures the cut edges of the radius in anatomical alignment using internal fixation devices such as pins, screws, or plates. Alternatively, an external fixation device may be applied if indicated.

3. Post-Procedure

After the completion of the osteotomy procedure, patients typically require careful monitoring and follow-up care. Post-operative care may include pain management, immobilization of the arm to allow for proper healing, and physical therapy to restore function. The expected recovery period can vary based on the individual patient's condition and the extent of the surgery. Regular follow-up appointments are essential to assess healing and ensure that the radius is maintaining its proper alignment. Any complications or concerns should be addressed promptly to facilitate optimal recovery.

Short Descr REVISION OF RADIUS
Medium Descr OSTEOTOMY RADIUS MIDDLE/PROXIMAL THIRD
Long Descr Osteotomy, radius; middle or proximal third
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) 1 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures applies.
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) 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 Hospital Part B services paid through a comprehensive APC
ASC Payment Indicator Surgical procedure on ASC list in CY 2007; payment based on OPPS relative payment weight.
Type of Service (TOS) 2 - Surgery
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) P3D - Major procedure, orthopedic - other
MUE 1
CCS Clinical Classification 161 - Other OR therapeutic procedures on bone
51 Multiple procedures: when multiple procedures, other than e/m services, physical medicine and rehabilitation services or provision of supplies (eg, vaccines), are performed at the same session by the same individual, the primary procedure or service may be reported as listed. the additional procedure(s) or service(s) may be identified by appending modifier 51 to the additional procedure or service code(s). note: this modifier should not be appended to designated "add-on" codes (see appendix d).
82 Assistant surgeon (when qualified resident surgeon not available): the unavailability of a qualified resident surgeon is a prerequisite for use of modifier 82 appended to the usual procedure code number(s).
AS Physician assistant, nurse practitioner, or clinical nurse specialist services for assistant at surgery
LT Left side (used to identify procedures performed on the left side of the body)
RT Right side (used to identify procedures performed on the right side of the body)
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Pre-1990 Added Code added.
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