CPT® Code 24136

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 arm, including the humeral shaft, distal humerus, radial head, neck, or olecranon process. During the operation, a surgical incision is made to access the affected area, allowing the surgeon to carefully elevate the periosteum, which is the layer of connective tissue surrounding 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 and an involucrum, or new bone formation, has developed around the sequestrum, the necrotic bone is removed while preserving the involucrum to facilitate healing. Finally, the incisions are closed, and a dressing is applied to protect the surgical site during the recovery process.