CPT® Code 20975

Electrical stimulation to aid bone healing, as described by CPT® Code 20975, refers to an invasive procedure designed to enhance the healing process of bones that may not heal properly under normal circumstances. While bone typically heals effectively on its own, certain conditions can impede this natural process. For instance, inadequate blood circulation to the bone fragments or the presence of scar tissue at the fracture site can compromise healing. In such cases, electrical stimulation serves as a therapeutic intervention to promote bone healing. This invasive technique differs from noninvasive methods, such as pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy, where devices are applied externally to the skin or incorporated into casts. Instead, CPT® Code 20975 involves the direct placement of cathodes into the bone at the fracture site, usually performed during a separate operative procedure aimed at treating the fracture. These cathodes are connected to a small implanted generator that delivers a low-voltage alternating current, effectively stimulating the healing process at the cellular level. This method is particularly beneficial in cases where traditional healing may be insufficient, providing a targeted approach to enhance recovery and restore bone integrity.