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Prophylactic treatment of the radius involves surgical interventions aimed at preventing fractures in the bone, particularly when it has been compromised due to a disease process or neoplasm. This procedure is essential for maintaining the structural integrity of the radius and/or ulna, which may be weakened and at risk of fracture. The treatment options include various methods such as nailing, pinning, plating, or wiring, which can be performed with or without the use of methylmethacrylate, a type of bone cement that helps to stabilize the bone. Prior to the procedure, a thorough evaluation of the weakened bone is conducted using radiographic imaging to determine the most effective prophylactic approach. Depending on the specific condition of the bone, an intramedullary nail or rod may be inserted through either an antegrade or retrograde approach, which refers to the direction of insertion relative to the bone. The surgical process typically involves making an incision over the proximal or distal radius or ulna, followed by the insertion of the nail or rod into the intramedullary space. The stability of the nail is enhanced by securing it with locking screws placed both distally and proximally. In cases where pins are utilized, they may be inserted transcutaneously through the weakened area of the bone. For plating, an open exposure of the bone is required, allowing for the placement of a plate that is then secured with screws. Additionally, wiring involves the application of a wire cerclage that wraps around the bone to provide support. When methylmethacrylate is indicated, it is injected into any bony defects to further reinforce the structural integrity of the radius.
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The prophylactic treatment of the radius is indicated in specific clinical scenarios where the bone is at an increased risk of fracture due to underlying conditions. These indications include:
The procedure for prophylactic treatment of the radius involves several critical steps to ensure the effective stabilization of the bone. These steps include:
After the prophylactic treatment of the radius, post-procedure care is essential for optimal recovery. Patients are typically monitored for any signs of complications, such as infection or improper healing. Rehabilitation may be initiated to restore function and strength to the affected limb. The expected recovery time can vary based on the extent of the procedure and the individual patient's health status. Follow-up appointments are crucial to assess the healing process and to ensure that the bone is adequately stabilized. Additionally, patients may be advised on weight-bearing restrictions and activity modifications during the recovery phase to prevent undue stress on the treated bone.
| Short Descr | PROPHYLACTIC TX RADIUS | Medium Descr | PROPH TX W/WO METHYLMETHACRYLATE RADIUS | Long Descr | Prophylactic treatment (nailing, pinning, plating or wiring) with or without methylmethacrylate; radius | 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). | AS | Physician assistant, nurse practitioner, or clinical nurse specialist services for assistant at surgery | 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) | RT | Right side (used to identify procedures performed on the right side of the body) | XS | Separate structure, a service that is distinct because it was performed on a separate organ/structure |
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| 2025-01-01 | Changed | Short and Medium Descriptions changed. |
| Pre-1990 | Added | Code added. |
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