CPT® Code 24134

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. This procedure is specifically indicated for conditions such as osteomyelitis, an infection of the bone, or a bone abscess, which is a localized collection of pus within the bone. The procedure can be performed on various parts of the humerus, including the shaft or distal humerus, as well as other areas such as the radial head or neck and the olecranon process. The surgical approach involves making an incision through the skin and soft tissue to access the affected area. If the periosteum, the layer of tissue covering the bone, is healthy, it is carefully lifted away from the sequestrum to allow for the excision of the necrotic bone. After the sequestrum is removed, the periosteum is repositioned over the resulting defect in the cortical bone. In cases where the periosteum is not viable and an involucrum, which is a layer of new bone formation, has developed around the sequestrum, the necrotic bone is excised while leaving the involucrum intact to promote healing. Finally, the incisions in the soft tissue and skin are sutured closed, and a dressing is applied to protect the surgical site.