Summary & Overview
CPT 29705: Removal or Repair of Casts and Strapping
CPT code 29705 represents the removal or repair of casts and strapping, a fundamental procedure in orthopedic care for patients recovering from fractures or musculoskeletal injuries. This code is widely recognized across major national payers, including Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, Medicare, and UnitedHealthcare, ensuring broad coverage and reimbursement for providers delivering these services.
The publication provides a comprehensive overview of 29705, detailing its clinical context, typical sites of service, and its role within orthopedic and casting service lines. Readers will gain insight into payer coverage, relevant policy updates, and benchmarks for utilization. The analysis also highlights associated modifiers and taxonomies, offering clarity on coding practices and provider specialties involved in cast removal and repair. Additionally, the publication references common ICD-10 diagnoses linked to this procedure, such as fractures of the radius, tibia, and foot, as well as pathological fractures and pseudarthrosis.
Healthcare professionals, administrators, and policy analysts will find this summary valuable for understanding the national landscape of cast removal and repair services, including payer policies, coding nuances, and clinical indications. The information supports informed decision-making regarding billing, compliance, and service delivery in orthopedic practice.
CPT Code Overview
CPT code 29705 is used to report the removal or repair of casts and strapping, a procedure commonly performed in orthopedic settings. This service is essential for patients requiring cast removal or adjustment following treatment for fractures or other musculoskeletal injuries. The typical site of service for this procedure includes facility outpatient departments or physician offices, specifically place of service codes 11 and 22. The procedure is a key component of orthopedic and casting services, supporting patient recovery and ongoing care.
Clinical & Coding Specifications
Clinical Context
A patient presents to an orthopedic clinic or outpatient facility with a healing fracture, such as an unspecified fracture of the lower end of the right radius or right foot. The patient previously received a cast or strapping for immobilization. During follow-up, the provider assesses the healing progress and determines that removal or repair of the cast or strapping is necessary. The procedure is performed by an orthopedic surgeon, trauma specialist, or sports medicine physician in a facility outpatient setting (POS 22) or physician office (POS 11). The workflow includes evaluation, cast removal or repair, and documentation of the procedure and clinical findings.
Coding Specifications
-
Modifier
59: Used to indicate a distinct procedural service, such as when cast removal or repair is performed separately from other procedures on the same day. -
Modifier
76: Used when the removal or repair of a cast or strapping is repeated by the same physician or qualified healthcare professional.
| Provider Taxonomy Code | Specialty Name |
|---|---|
207X00000X | Orthopaedic Surgery Physician |