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CPT 26645: Closed Manipulation of Thumb-Base Fracture
CPT code 26645 represents a closed manipulation of a displaced fracture at the base of the thumb near the wrist, a non‑operative procedure to restore joint alignment without incision. This procedure matters nationally because thumb base fractures can impact hand function and workforce participation; timely, effective closed reduction can reduce the need for open surgery and influence downstream costs and recovery trajectories. Key payers considered in national analyses include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will learn the clinical context of CPT code 26645, typical sites of service (emergency department, outpatient clinic, ambulatory surgical center), and the role of closed manipulation in the care pathway for thumb base fractures. The publication provides benchmarking context, common billing considerations, and policy-relevant highlights that affect coverage and utilization. Practical insights include expected service settings, how this code fits into fracture management workflows, and areas where coding clarity and policy updates may affect claims processing. Data not available in the input will be explicitly noted in relevant sections.
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Billing Code Overview
CPT code 26645 describes a closed manipulation of a displaced fracture at the base of the thumb near the wrist (the carpometacarpal or adjacent joint) performed to restore alignment without making an incision. The procedure is a non‑operative fracture reduction using manual techniques to realign bone fragments.
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Service type: Closed fracture manipulation (non‑surgical fracture reduction)
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Typical site of service: Emergency department, ambulatory surgical center, or outpatient clinic where urgent musculoskeletal reductions and splinting are performed.
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