CPT® Code 25151

The procedure described by CPT® Code 25151 involves a partial excision of bone, specifically targeting the radius, to address osteomyelitis, which is an infection of the bone. This surgical intervention is also known by terms such as craterization, saucerization, or diaphysectomy. Craterization and saucerization refer to techniques that create a shallow depression in the bone surface by removing infected and necrotic bone, thereby facilitating drainage from the infected area. Diaphysectomy, on the other hand, entails the removal of the infected segment of the shaft of a long bone. The procedure begins with an incision through the skin and soft tissue over the osteomyelitis site, allowing access to the affected area. During the operation, any associated soft tissue sinus tracts and devitalized soft tissue are excised to ensure a clean surgical field. The surgeon then exposes the necrotic and infected bone, employing a series of drill holes to delineate the area of bone that needs to be removed. The bone between these holes is excavated using an osteotome, and the extent of bone excised is determined by the severity of the infection. A curette may be utilized to clear out any remaining devitalized tissue from the medullary canal. The debridement process continues until healthy bone is reached, indicated by the presence of punctate bleeding on the exposed surface. Following the removal of all infected and necrotic tissue, the surgical site is thoroughly irrigated with sterile saline or an antibiotic solution to reduce the risk of further infection. Finally, the wound is loosely closed, and a drain is placed to facilitate any necessary postoperative drainage.