Summary & Overview
HCPCS Level II L3640: Transfer of Dennis Browne Splint Between Shoes
HCPCS Level II code L3640 covers the transfer of a Dennis Browne splint (Riverton) from one shoe to another for both shoes. This orthotic transfer service is relevant to pediatric orthopedic care and outpatient orthotics/prosthetics settings where device repositioning maintains corrective alignment without fabricating a new appliance. Nationally, the code is important for appropriate billing of device maintenance services that preserve continuity of care and can affect device-related cost reporting.
Key payers in the coverage landscape include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise overview of what the code represents, payer coverage context, and the kinds of benchmarks and policy considerations typically associated with durable medical equipment and orthotic service lines. The publication outlines clinical context for why transfers are performed, common sites of service, and where to look for policy updates tied to orthotic device billing. If available, benchmarks on utilization, reimbursement patterns, and recent payer policy changes are summarized to inform billing teams and policy analysts. Data not available in the input is noted where applicable.
Billing Code Overview
HCPCS Level II code L3640 describes the transfer of an orthosis from one shoe to another, specifically for a Dennis Browne splint (Riverton), both shoes. The service involves relocating an existing pediatric orthopedic orthotic device between footwear to maintain appropriate positioning and function.
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Service type: Orthotic device modification/transfer
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Typical site of service: Outpatient clinic or orthotics/prosthetics facility
Clinical & Coding Specifications
Clinical Context
A pediatric patient with congenital clubfoot treated with a Dennis-Browne bar and bilateral foot orthoses presents to an orthotics clinic for transfer of the orthosis from the child’s outgrown pair of shoes to a new pair. The clinical workflow begins with an orthotist or pediatric orthopedics technician verifying the patient identity and existing orthosis, inspecting the Dennis-Browne splint components for wear, and confirming shoe compatibility. The clinician documents shoe sizes, assesses integrity of attachments and fasteners, and determines that no fabrication or modification of the orthosis is required beyond transferring the splint hardware and pads into the new shoes. Photographs and measurements are recorded in the medical record; the old shoes and hardware are cleaned, and the splint is re-attached and aligned in the replacement shoes. A brief functional check is performed to ensure fit and safety, and the caregiver receives instructions for wear schedule and monitoring. The visit is typically brief and performed in an outpatient orthotics clinic, pediatric orthopedics office, or hospital-based prosthetics/orthotics department. Billing uses the HCPCS Level II code L3640 for transfer of a Dennis-Browne splint from one shoe to another, billed for both shoes when applicable.
Coding Specifications
| Modifier | Description | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
11 | Normal or default procedure performed | When the transfer is routine with no complications and the usual professional service is provided. |