CPT® Code 20985

Computer-assisted surgical navigational procedure for musculoskeletal procedures, image-less (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)

An image-less computer-assisted surgical navigational procedure is a sophisticated technique utilized in complex musculoskeletal surgeries. This procedure is designed to enhance the precision of surgical interventions by allowing surgeons to navigate through the surgical field with greater accuracy. The term "image-less" indicates that this navigational approach does not rely on pre-existing imaging studies, but instead utilizes real-time data and anatomical landmarks to guide the surgical process. This method is particularly beneficial for surgeries that involve small incisions, such as the fixation of femoral or pelvic fractures, where traditional imaging may not be feasible or necessary. The advantages of employing computer-assisted surgical navigation include improved surgical accuracy, reduced operative time, minimized blood loss, and a potentially shorter recovery period for patients. The procedure itself consists of three critical steps: data acquisition, registration, and tracking. During data acquisition, information related to joint rotation centers and visual anatomical landmarks is collected. Following this, registration techniques are applied to correlate the anatomical data with the actual bony structures present in the surgical field. Finally, tracking is conducted using specialized sensors and measurement devices, which provide real-time feedback to the surgeon regarding the placement of surgical instruments in relation to the bony anatomy, thereby facilitating a more controlled and effective surgical outcome.