Summary & Overview

CPT 29075: Application of Static Short Arm Splint, Forearm to Hand

CPT code 29075 is a nationally recognized billing code for the application of a static short arm splint, used to immobilize the forearm and hand following injuries such as fractures or stress injuries. This procedure is a cornerstone in orthopedic care, providing essential stabilization for patients and facilitating proper healing. The code is widely utilized in office-based settings by orthopedic surgeons and family medicine practitioners.

Major payers covering this service include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, Medicare, and UnitedHealthcare. The publication offers a comprehensive overview of payer coverage, clinical context, and relevant policy updates for CPT 29075. Readers will gain insights into typical use cases, associated diagnoses, and related procedural codes, as well as current benchmarks and billing considerations. The summary also highlights common modifiers and taxonomies relevant to the procedure, ensuring a thorough understanding of its place in orthopedic practice and medical billing.

This article is designed for healthcare professionals, billing specialists, and policy analysts seeking up-to-date information on the clinical and reimbursement landscape for short arm splint applications. It provides a clear, concise reference for understanding the scope and significance of CPT 29075 in national healthcare delivery.

AetnaBlue Cross Blue ShieldCigna HealthMedicareUnitedHealthcareCPT 29075OrthopedicsShort Arm SplintMedical BillingOffice SettingStatic SplintClinical BenchmarkPolicy UpdateOrthopaedic SurgeryOrthopaedic Trauma

CPT Code Overview

CPT 29075 represents the application of a short arm splint, extending from the forearm to the hand, in a static position. This procedure is commonly performed in orthopedic settings to immobilize injuries such as fractures or stress injuries of the forearm or hand. The service type is Orthopedics, and the typical site of service is the office setting (POS 11). Short arm splints are essential for stabilizing affected areas, promoting healing, and preventing further injury.

Clinical & Coding Specifications

Clinical Context

A patient presents to the orthopedic office after sustaining a fall, resulting in pain and swelling in the wrist or hand. Upon evaluation, imaging confirms a closed fracture of the distal radius or hand. The provider determines that a static short arm splint is appropriate to immobilize the injury and facilitate healing. The splint is applied from the forearm to the hand, ensuring proper alignment and comfort. The procedure is performed in the office setting, and the laterality of the injury is documented using the appropriate modifier. Follow-up care is scheduled to monitor healing and adjust treatment as needed.

Coding Specifications

Modifiers:
- LT: Indicates the procedure was performed on the left side.
- RT: Indicates the procedure was performed on the right side.
Provider Taxonomies:

Code Specialty
207X00000X Orthopaedic Surgery

Code	Specialty
`207X00000X`	Orthopaedic Surgery

National Reimbursement Benchmarks

For CPT code 29075, the national mean rate for Medicare is $100.88, while the BUCA (average commercial) mean rate is higher at $107.24. Commercial payers such as Cigna and UnitedHealth Group show even higher mean rates, at $135.54 and $137.64 respectively, compared to both Medicare and BUCA.

Rate dispersion, measured by the difference between the 75th and 25th percentiles, varies significantly across payers. Medicare exhibits the tightest range, with only an $11.00 difference between its 75th and 25th percentiles. In contrast, Cigna and UnitedHealth Group have the widest dispersions, with differences of $79.00 and $78.83 respectively, indicating greater variability in commercial reimbursement rates.

The table and chart below present a detailed breakdown of national benchmarks for each payer, including mean rates and percentile values.

National Mean Rates by Payer for CPT Code `29075`

Related CPT Codes

29125 - Application of short arm splint (forearm to hand); dynamic
- Used when a dynamic splint is required, allowing some movement. Alternative to 29075 for cases needing flexibility.
29130 - Application of finger splint; static
- Used for immobilization of finger fractures or injuries. Related as a more localized splinting procedure.
29105 - Application of long arm splint (shoulder to hand); static
- Used for injuries requiring immobilization from shoulder to hand. Alternative to 29075 for more extensive fractures.
99213 - Established patient office or other outpatient visit, typically 15 minutes
- Commonly billed in conjunction with splint application for evaluation and management of the patient during the visit.
Common Workflow:
- 99213 is often used with 29075 for the office visit.
- 29125, 29130, and 29105 are alternatives depending on injury location and required immobilization.

OpenPayer

Summary & Overview

CPT 29075: Application of Static Short Arm Splint, Forearm to Hand

CPT Code Overview

Clinical & Coding Specifications

Clinical Context

Coding Specifications

National Reimbursement Benchmarks

Related Codes

Related Diagnoses

Related CPT Codes

National Reimbursement Benchmarks

Related Codes