CPT code 64721 refers to a surgical procedure designed to relieve pressure on a nerve in the wrist, often to treat a condition known as carpal tunnel syndrome. CPT 64721 represents “Neuroplasty and/or transposition; median nerve at carpal tunnel.”
Procedure Explanation:
This surgery, known as carpal tunnel release, involves making an incision in the wrist area to free up the median nerve, which may be pinched or compressed, causing numbness or pain. The main focus of this procedure is to provide relief by cutting a ligament in the wrist to create more space for the nerve. Typically, this procedure does not involve actions on other nerves or areas of the hand.
Common Names:
- Carpal Tunnel Release
- Median Nerve Decompression
- Wrist Nerve Surgery
Relative Value Units (RVU):
The RVUs associated with this code are 4.97.
How This Procedure Appears:
- Operating Room Schedule Name: Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery
- Surgical Consent Form Name: Median Nerve Release in Wrist
Typical Patients and Diagnoses:
This procedure is commonly performed on individuals experiencing persistent hand and wrist discomfort due to carpal tunnel syndrome. For instance, people who frequently use computers or perform repetitive hand movements might suffer from this condition and require this surgical solution if other treatments, like splints or medication, do not help.
Associated ICD-10 Codes:
- G56.00: Carpal tunnel syndrome in an unspecified upper limb, which means the nerve compression has not been specified as being in the left or right arm.
- G56.01: Carpal tunnel syndrome in the right upper limb, indicating the condition is affecting the right wrist and hand.
- G56.02: Carpal tunnel syndrome in the left upper limb, indicating the condition is affecting the left wrist and hand.
Summary
In summary, code 64721 describes a procedure aimed at relieving pressure on the median nerve in the wrist, commonly known as carpal tunnel release surgery. Typical ICD-10 codes associated with 64721 include G56.00 (unspecified arm carpal tunnel syndrome) and G56.01 (right arm carpal tunnel syndrome).
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.