CPT code 23550 represents the open surgical fixation of acute or chronic acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocations using internal fixation devices such as pins or screws. This procedure is a key orthopedic intervention for restoring shoulder girdle stability after traumatic or recurrent AC separations. Nationally, the code is relevant for hospital billing, ambulatory surgery centers, and payer coverage determinations involving operative management of shoulder injuries.

Key payers covered in this analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise overview of clinical context for the code, common sites of service, and the types of surgical care it represents. The publication summarizes benchmarking and reimbursement context where available, highlights policy or coverage considerations that commonly affect surgical shoulder procedures, and explains how 23550 fits into orthopedic service lines.

The report provides: (1) a clinical description of the procedure and its indications; (2) payer coverage landscape and common billing practices; and (3) operational considerations for coding and site-of-service determination. Data not available in the input is identified explicitly where applicable.