CPT® Code 23174

A sequestrectomy is a surgical procedure aimed at removing a sequestrum, which is a segment of necrotic (dead) bone that has detached from the surrounding healthy bone tissue. This procedure is particularly indicated in cases of osteomyelitis, an infection of the bone, or a bone abscess, which is a localized collection of pus within the bone. The specific focus of CPT® Code 23174 pertains to the humeral head to surgical neck region of the humerus, which is the upper arm bone. During the procedure, a surgical incision is made to access the affected area, allowing the surgeon to carefully elevate the periosteum, the fibrous tissue covering the bone, if it is healthy. The necrotic bone is then excised, and if the periosteum is viable, it is repositioned over the defect left by the removed sequestrum. In cases where the periosteum is not viable, the surgeon may find that new bone, known as involucrum, has formed around the sequestrum. In such instances, the necrotic bone is removed while preserving the involucrum, which will aid in the healing process and contribute to the formation of new bone in the defect. After the procedure, the incisions in the soft tissue and skin are closed, and a dressing is applied to protect the surgical site during the recovery phase.