Summary & Overview
CPT 23570: Closed Treatment of Scapular Fracture
CPT code 23570 covers the closed treatment of a scapular (shoulder blade) fracture and signifies nonoperative management without manipulation or surgical repair. Nationally, this code matters because scapular fractures, while less common than other shoulder injuries, require accurate coding to reflect nonoperative care pathways, utilization of immobilization, and resource allocation in emergency and outpatient settings. Proper use of CPT code 23570 affects clinical documentation, reimbursement, and reporting of musculoskeletal trauma care trends.
Key payers in scope include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find context on the clinical scenario represented by the code, typical sites of service where the procedure is performed, common billing modifiers and administrative considerations, and related coding references. The publication provides benchmarks where available, highlights recent policy updates relevant to fracture management coding, and outlines documentation elements that support appropriate use of CPT code 23570 in nonoperative scapular fracture care. Data not available in the input will be noted where applicable.
Billing Code Overview
CPT code 23570 describes a closed treatment of a scapular fracture. The procedure involves nonoperative management of a fractured scapula without manipulation or open surgical intervention. The clinical focus is reduction of the fracture through closed techniques and external immobilization as indicated by the treating provider.
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Service type: Fracture management, closed treatment
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Typical site of service: Hospital outpatient department, emergency department, or ambulatory surgery center where closed fracture care and immobilization are provided
Clinical & Coding Specifications
Clinical Context
A 45-year-old male presents to the emergency department after a fall from a bicycle with left shoulder pain, swelling, and limited range of motion. Imaging (plain radiographs and limited CT) confirms a non-displaced fracture of the scapular body without neurovascular compromise and no associated glenohumeral dislocation. Orthopedic trauma evaluates the patient and determines that the fracture can be managed nonoperatively. The provider performs a closed treatment of the scapular fracture — application of a sling and shoulder immobilizer, pain management, and education on activity restrictions. Follow-up visits are scheduled in the orthopedic clinic for serial radiographs and assessment of fracture healing and shoulder function. Typical documentation includes reason for closed treatment, fracture description, neurovascular status, immobilization method, patient tolerance of the procedure, and follow-up instructions.
Coding Specifications
| Modifier | Description | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
RT | Right side | Use when the treated scapula is the right side. |
LT | Left side | Use when the treated scapula is the left side. |