CPT® Code 23331

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The procedure described by CPT® Code 23331 involves the surgical removal of a deep foreign body from the shoulder region. This may include foreign objects that have penetrated the shoulder due to trauma or implanted devices such as a hemiprosthesis, which is a type of partial joint replacement. The process begins with a skin incision made over the shoulder joint, allowing access to the underlying structures. Surgeons then carefully dissect through the soft tissues to expose and open the joint capsule. Once the shoulder joint is accessed, the humeral head or prosthesis is dislocated to facilitate inspection of the joint structures. The removal of a deep foreign body can involve grasping and extracting a penetrating object or carefully detaching an implanted device from the surrounding bone, such as the humerus or glenoid cavity. Additionally, if bone cement is present, it is also removed during this procedure. After the foreign body is extracted, the bony surfaces are smoothed to promote healing. In cases where a new prosthesis is required, this can be performed as a separate procedure. Alternatively, if the removal is necessitated by an infection, a drain may be placed, and the soft tissues are closed around it to aid in recovery.