CPT® Code 24435

The procedure described by CPT® Code 24435 involves the surgical repair of a nonunion or malunion of the humerus, which is the long bone in the upper arm. A nonunion occurs when the fracture fragments fail to heal together after an extended period, typically defined as 8 to 10 months. Conversely, a malunion refers to a situation where the bone fragments heal in an incorrect position, leading to potential complications such as deformity, pain, and impaired function. The repair process includes the use of an autograft, which is a graft taken from the patient's own body, often from the iliac crest, to fill in the bone defect and promote healing. This procedure is essential for restoring the structural integrity of the humerus and ensuring proper alignment and function of the arm. The surgical approach requires careful evaluation of the fracture site, and may involve additional steps such as refracturing the bone to achieve proper alignment before securing the graft and stabilizing the fracture with internal fixation devices. The overall goal is to facilitate healing and restore normal anatomy and function to the affected arm.