CPT® Code 25624

Closed treatment of a carpal scaphoid fracture, also known as a navicular fracture, involves a non-surgical approach to address a fracture of the scaphoid bone, which is one of the eight carpal bones in the wrist. This bone is situated at the base of the thumb and is recognized as the most commonly fractured bone in the wrist due to its location and the forces exerted on it during wrist injuries. The procedure is indicated when there is a minimally displaced fracture, meaning that the fracture fragments have not significantly shifted from their normal anatomical position. Prior to the treatment, radiographs, or X-rays, are obtained to confirm the presence of the fracture, although it is important to note that scaphoid fractures may not be visible on these images until one to two weeks after the injury occurs. A thorough neurovascular examination is conducted to assess the integrity of the nerves and blood vessels surrounding the injury site, ensuring that there are no complications that could affect healing. In cases where the fracture is nondisplaced, as described in CPT® Code 25622, no manipulation is necessary, and the arm is typically immobilized with a short arm splint or cast. However, for CPT® Code 25624, which pertains to the closed treatment of a minimally displaced fracture, the procedure includes the manual manipulation of the fracture fragments to restore proper anatomical alignment. Following this manipulation, additional radiographs are taken to verify that the alignment has been successfully achieved, and the arm is then immobilized using a short arm splint or cast to facilitate healing.