Summary & Overview
CPT 29046: Application of Long Arm Splint (Shoulder to Hand)
CPT code 29046 is a nationally recognized billing code for the application of a long arm splint, spanning from the shoulder to the hand. This procedure is a cornerstone in orthopedic care, used to immobilize the upper extremity following fractures or trauma, and is typically performed in an office setting. The code is relevant for a wide range of clinical scenarios, including management of humerus, radius, and ulna fractures.
Major payers covered in this analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, Medicare, and UnitedHealthcare. Understanding coverage and reimbursement policies for CPT code 29046 is essential for providers and healthcare organizations navigating orthopedic billing and compliance.
Readers will gain insight into the clinical context of the procedure, payer coverage details, and related coding benchmarks. The publication also highlights common modifiers, associated taxonomies, and relevant ICD-10 diagnoses, providing a comprehensive overview for those involved in orthopedic billing and policy. This summary serves as a resource for understanding the national landscape of CPT code 29046 and its role in orthopedic practice.
CPT Code Overview
CPT code 29046 represents the application of a long arm splint, extending from the shoulder to the hand. This procedure is commonly performed in orthopedic settings to immobilize the arm following fractures or injuries, ensuring proper healing and alignment. The typical site of service for this procedure is the office setting (Place of Service 11), where orthopedic specialists provide care for patients requiring splinting of the upper extremity. This code is integral to orthopedic practice, supporting effective management of upper limb injuries.
Clinical & Coding Specifications
Clinical Context
A patient presents to the orthopedic office with a closed fracture of the shaft of the humerus or forearm, such as the radius or ulna. The injury is acute and requires immobilization to promote healing and prevent further damage. The orthopedic physician evaluates the patient, confirms the diagnosis with clinical assessment and imaging, and determines that a long arm splint (from shoulder to hand) is necessary. The splint is applied in the office setting to stabilize the affected limb, typically for initial management before definitive treatment or as part of conservative care.
Coding Specifications
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Modifiers:
LT: Indicates the procedure was performed on the left side.RT: Indicates the procedure was performed on the right side.
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Provider Taxonomies:
| Code | Specialty |
|---|---|
207X00000X | Orthopaedic Surgery Physician |