CPT code 20680 refers to a surgical procedure that involves taking out a piece of metal used in previous surgeries, like screws or rods, that are buried inside the body. CPT 20680 represents “Removal of implant; deep (eg, buried wire, pin, screw, metal band, nail, rod or plate)”.
Procedure Explanation:
This procedure involves the doctor making an incision to remove a deeply embedded piece of metal or hardware from the body, such as a wire, screw, nail, or plate. It does not include removing anything that is easily accessible or not deeply buried within the body.
Common Names:
- Deep Implant Removal
- Hardware Extraction
- Removal of Metal Device
Relative Value Units (RVU):
The RVUs associated with this code are 5.96.
How This Procedure Appears:
- Operating Room Schedule Name: Deep hardware removal
- Surgical Consent Form Name: Consent for removal of internal hardware
Typical Patients and Diagnoses:
This procedure is often needed for patients who have had previous surgeries where metal devices were placed to help with bone healing or stabilization, but later need them removed either because they’ve fulfilled their purpose, are causing discomfort, or have become problematic. For example, someone who had a broken bone repaired with screws might require this procedure if the screws start causing pain or complications.
Associated ICD-10 Codes:
- M96.2: This code represents a condition where there is a failure of the bone to heal properly around the hardware after surgery.
- T84.84XA: This code is used when a patient has pain due to an internal fixation device, which can cause them to require the device to be removed.
- Z96.651: This code identifies the presence of an orthopedic device in the body that the patient might need to have removed.
Summary
In summary, code 20680 describes a surgical procedure to remove deeply placed metal hardware from the body. Typical ICD-10 codes associated with 20680 include M96.2 (problems with bone healing around hardware) and T84.84XA (pain from an internal fixation device).
Disclaimer
This post is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. “CPT” and CPT Codes are registered trademarks of the American Medical Association. HCPCS codes are managed by Medicare and are not subject to copyright.