CPT® Code 24138

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 olecranon process, which is the bony prominence of the elbow, is one of the anatomical sites where this procedure can be performed. During the operation, an incision is made through the skin and soft tissue to access the affected area. If the periosteum, the membrane covering the bone, is found to be healthy, it is carefully lifted away from the sequestrum to allow for its removal. After excising the necrotic bone, the elevated periosteum is repositioned over the resulting defect in the cortical bone. In cases where the periosteum is not viable and an involucrum, a layer of new bone, has developed around the sequestrum, the necrotic bone is removed while preserving the involucrum, which will aid in the healing process. Finally, the incisions are closed, and a dressing is applied to protect the surgical site during recovery.